Title:
Joseph Bonanno Signed Check to Thomas E. Bradel, D.D.S. – Dated March 18, 1978 – PSA/DNA Certified Authentic (Cert. #84205888)

Description:
Original bank check dated March 18, 1978, drawn on The Arizona Bank, Tucson, Arizona, payable to “Thomas E. Bradel, D.D.S.” in the amount of $17.00. The date “3/18/78” is handwritten at the upper right corner, with check number 1644 printed at the top right. The memo line is completed and reads “Dentist,” indicating the purpose of payment.

The check is personally signed “Joseph Bonanno” in blue ink along the lower right signature line. It features southwestern-themed artwork and printed bank information referencing North Stone Avenue, Tucson, Arizona. Routing and account numbers are printed along the bottom edge.

The reverse displays banking endorsements, including a deposit stamp for Dr. Thomas E. Bradel and processing stamps dated March 22, 1978, consistent with standard commercial handling.

The check is encapsulated in a PSA/DNA tamper-evident slab labeled “CHECK – JOSEPH BONANNO – PSA/DNA CERTIFIED” with certification number 84205888. The autograph remains bold and clearly legible within the protective holder.

Condition: Exhibits standard banking folds and routine processing stamps typical of circulated financial instruments. The signature remains strong and well-preserved.

Historical Context:
Joseph Bonanno (1905–2002) was a prominent American organized crime figure and longtime head of the Bonanno crime family, one of the Five Families that dominated organized crime in New York City. Born in Castellammare del Golfo, Sicily, he immigrated to the United States and rose to prominence following the Castellammarese War (1929–1931), becoming one of the youngest Mafia bosses in America.

By 1978, Bonanno was residing in Tucson, Arizona, having relocated there during the 1960s after internal leadership struggles within his organization, often referred to as the “Banana War.” During this later period of his life, he lived more quietly in Arizona, years before the publication of his autobiography in 1983. Financial documents from this era provide insight into his day-to-day life outside of New York.

Signed checks bearing clear notations—such as the memo entry “Dentist”—offer a personal and humanizing glimpse into the routine transactions of a historically significant and controversial figure.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA.
Certification Number: 84205888.
The PSA/DNA label confirms the authenticity of the Joseph Bonanno signature. The tamper-evident slab ensures secure preservation and display.

• 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:
A dated and purpose-noted financial instrument from March 18, 1978, signed by Joseph Bonanno, offers collectors a compelling and authentic connection to one of the most historically significant organized crime figures of the 20th century. Fully authenticated by PSA/DNA and preserved within its protective slab, this check represents a display-ready and historically evocative artifact—especially enhanced by the handwritten “Dentist” memo that adds a personal dimension to the piece.

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.

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