Title: Meyer Lansky Rare Handwritten Letter Signed "Dad" to His Daughter Sandra, 1972 - From the Lansky Family Collection

Description:

A remarkable and deeply personal autograph letter signed (ALS) by Meyer Lansky (1902-1983), the legendary American organized crime figure known as the "Mob's Accountant," written to his daughter Sandra ("Sandy") on August 11, 1972. Penned entirely in Lansky's hand in blue ink on a single sheet of unlined paper, the letter offers an extraordinary glimpse into the private life of one of the most influential figures in the history of American organized crime. Signed affectionately "Love Dad," the letter discusses his travels in Israel, the oppressive summer heat, and his concern for family members back home.

Writing from Israel, where he had been living since 1970, Lansky opens by explaining his delayed correspondence, remarking, "You may be wondering why I didn't write sooner, there is only one reason, the heat." He describes a recent four-day visit to Jerusalem, noting the surprising temperature difference between the city and his location, and reveals his plans to return to Jerusalem later that month, where he expected to stay at the King David Hotel.

The letter reads in full:

"Aug. 11, 1972.

Dear Sandra:

You may be wondering why I didn't write sooner, there is only one reason, the heat. It has been beastly hot. Last Friday we went to Jerusalem for 4 days. It was beautiful there, nites you wore a jacket you can't believe 40 miles will make this great a change. I expect to go to Jerusalem Aug. 18 - until the 22nd, I will be at the King David if I'm not home.

Did Gary get back home? He told me he worked hard so that he vacations a little before getting back to school. All work and no play isn't healthy. The next year is a very important year for him in school.

We are well here a few more weeks and the weather will be more pleasant.

My warmest regards to Vince and family. I wish you all keep in good health. All the best to all of you.

Love
Dad"

The letter is especially appealing for its affectionate, entirely domestic subject matter. Rather than discussing the criminal underworld with which his name became synonymous, Lansky writes as a devoted father and grandfather, expressing concern for Gary's education, encouraging a healthy balance between work and recreation, and sending his warmest wishes to the family.

The document exhibits expected age toning, original horizontal and vertical folds, light creasing, and scattered handling wear. The blue-ink handwriting remains legible throughout, with a particularly attractive closing signature, "Love Dad." Ink show-through is visible on the reverse.

Historical Context:

Meyer Lansky was among the most powerful and influential figures in twentieth-century American organized crime. A longtime associate of Charles "Lucky" Luciano and Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel, Lansky helped develop the financial and gambling operations associated with the National Crime Syndicate. His reputation for financial sophistication earned him the enduring nickname "The Mob's Accountant."

The date of this letter is particularly significant. In 1970, Lansky relocated to Israel, seeking to establish residency under the country's Law of Return. His application ultimately became the subject of considerable controversy, as Israeli authorities questioned whether his alleged criminal associations made him eligible for permanent residence.

Written in August 1972, during Lansky's controversial residence in Israel, this letter captures him at a pivotal moment in his life, just months before his departure from the country later that year. His casual references to Jerusalem and the prestigious King David Hotel provide a fascinating geographical connection to this chapter of his biography.

Perhaps most compelling is the contrast between Lansky's formidable public reputation and the gentle, affectionate tone of his correspondence. His concern for his grandson Gary, his interest in the family's well-being, and his closing words of affection reveal a personal side rarely encountered in historical accounts of organized crime. Coincidentally, Gary has also signed the certificate, as this letter was sourced directly from his family archives!

Authentication & Encapsulation:

Accompanied by a specially prepared Meyer Lansky family provenance certificate, identifying the document as an autograph letter signed dated August 11, 1972.

The certificate includes a signed statement by Gary Rapoport, Meyer Lansky's grandson, affirming that the letter was owned and cherished by his grandfather before passing to his mother, Sandy Lombardo, and remaining preserved within the family for many years.

The certificate bears the signatures of Gary Rapoport, John Reznikoff, President of University Archives and PSA/JSA authenticator, and Luke Pascal, President of Historical Autographs Gallery.

• 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:

An exceptional opportunity to acquire an intimate, handwritten family letter from one of the most recognizable figures in American organized crime, preserved through direct family descent. Combining Lansky's distinctive handwriting, a personal message to his daughter, references to his controversial years in Israel, and documented provenance from his grandson, this is a highly desirable piece of American Mafia history.

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.