Customer Reviews

In The Presence of History: The Authoritative Guide to Historical Autographs For Collectors, History Enthusiasts and Investors

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Well written, fun, interesting information and facts. It's a great book. And the Raab's are great to buy from also! Honest and reliable and knowledgeable.

Readers have the benefit of the authors' unmatched expertise in the field of collecting autographs along with the pleasure of viewing lifelike illustrations of notable historical documents. The Raab Collection which is the business of the authors is a leading dealer in historic autographs. With their reputation going back over 30 years, the Collection has relatives and others associated with important historical figures such as Thomas Jefferson and Dwight Eisenhower coming to them to handle or purchase written memorabilia. Among documents the Raab Collection has dealt with are Abraham Lincoln's order to blockade Southern ports at the start of the Civil War and the first mention by Theodore Roosevelt of his famous phrase "Speak softly and carry a big stick" in a letter. Such autographed items are connected with major points in American history. They are also indicative of the exceptional Americana the Raab Collection concentrates in.

The book is a reliable, up-to-date, comprehensive guide for newcomers to the field. Experienced dealers and collectors would profit much from it as well, not only in being brought up to date on certain subjects, means of authentication, purchasing or marketing items, and such, but also in the expert guidance and commentary on somewhat arcane, yet nonetheless important subjects for serious collectors and dealers. The authors don't stress this: But with its numerous clearly-presented illustrations of signed documents and some close-ups of signatures, the book can also be used to some extent as a reference for authenticating autographs or at least as a starting point for this.

The introductory chapter and ones following it on assessing the value of autographs, authentication of documents and signatures, and basics of buying and selling are essential for newcomers. Subchapters on the details of the art and science of authenticating signatures, comparisons of different kinds of documents in relation to determining authenticity, and a strategic approach to collecting autographs including investment considerations are chapters for advanced individuals in the field. As presidential autographs is one specialty area of the Raab Collection, there is a section on this; and the large majority of the illustrations are presidential documents.

The work is highly recommended for its concrete, dependable guidance accompanied by high-quality illustrations of varied historical documents as teaching tools. It makes the field enticing for beginners; and for veterans, it reminds them of the continual challenges and delights which sustain their involvement in the field.

Second only to hearing the Raabs speak in person and tell their story, "In The Presence of History," is a virtual "fireside chat," with the Raab Collection. Their story-telling is unique and their passion for history is contagious. They are educated and smart without being stuffy; and informative without being boring. This is a must-read for history lovers!

Bravo!!!! This book is a must for the autograph/manuscript enthusiast! The Rabbs share over 30 years of experience in simple understandable terms. The section on the Presidents is outstanding and provides insight like never seen before. The book also provides a listing on historical figures by category to aid the collector. I have not been able to put this book down. Even my 9 year old son (FDR fan) and 6 year old daughter (working on it) have looked at the book with interest. The Rabbs' have produced in my opinion the authoritative guide on manuscripts that sets the standard. Well done!! John O. - Florida.

"In The Presence Of History" is the paradigm reference work for anyone interested in the collection of historical letters and documents.

One particularly memorable anecdote depicts Steve Raab's discovery of Teddy Roosevelt's first written use of the famous adage " Speak softly and carry a big stick."

The section that covers historical correspondences by American Presidents is both comprehensive and fascinating.

The Raab family's passion for collecting and their strict adherence to veracity is cleraly apparent in this wonderful book.

Peter Low