Jacqueline Kennedy Signed Letter to JFK Harvard Classmate & Camelot Lyricist PSA

Title:
Jacqueline Kennedy ALS to Alan Jay Lerner, JFK's Harvard Classmate & Camelot Lyricist – Signed “Jackie” on Black-Bordered Kennedy Crest Stationery – PSA/DNA Certified

Description:
Poignant Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) by Jacqueline Kennedy, signed “Jackie” in black ballpoint pen on both sides of a 5.25" x 3.75" cream-colored mourning card bearing black borders and embossed with the Kennedy family coat of arms. Dated December 5, 1965, the card is penned in her distinctive hand and addressed to Alan Jay Lerner, the award-winning lyricist and Kennedy family friend. The heartfelt message reads in full:

“Dear Alan – Thank you for the pretty flowers, & thank you for breaking the language barrier, & all the others that the ‘mixed bag’ involved. Now that it’s over – I think my dinner was nice – but that is because you were there & helped me make it all work out – Much love, Jackie”

The card remains in fine condition, with strong contrast and no ink smudging. The letter is encapsulated in a PSA/DNA tamper-evident slab and certified as “AUTHENTIC AUTO” with certification number 85662192.

Historical Context:
Written two years after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, this intimate note from Jacqueline Kennedy reflects her continued close relationship with Alan Jay Lerner, lyricist of the beloved 1960 Broadway musical Camelot. Lerner, who had been JFK’s classmate at Harvard, created what Jackie would famously describe as a defining symbol of her husband’s presidency. In a Life magazine interview just a week after JFK’s death, she stated that the Camelot cast recording had been his favorite, and quoted its lyrics as his legacy:

“Don’t let it be forgot / That once there was a spot / For one brief, shining moment / That was known as Camelot.”

This letter, sent with a signed mourning envelope (also PSA/DNA certified), showcases their enduring friendship and highlights Jackie’s reliance on Lerner’s emotional support during difficult public and private events. The reference to a “mixed bag” and her grateful tone underline both the elegance and vulnerability that defined Jackie in the post-Camelot era.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA, with certification number 85662192, labeled: “Jacqueline Kennedy – Authentic Auto – PSA/DNA Certified.”

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
This emotionally resonant ALS from Jacqueline Kennedy to Alan Jay Lerner, presented on mourning stationery with the Kennedy crest, is more than just a signed note—it’s a piece of American cultural history. With direct ties to the Camelot mythos, presidential legacy, and Jackie’s post-White House life, it offers collectors a rare and deeply personal connection to the inner circle of the Kennedy era. A beautiful and historically rich item, complete with PSA certification for long-term value and preservation.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.