Richard Nixon Signed Typescript of “I Am Not a Crook” Speech – PSA/DNA Certified, GEM MT 10

Description: This is a signed typescript of Richard Nixon's famous "I am not a crook" speech, delivered on November 17, 1973 during a press conference in Orlando, Florida. The typescript is autographed by Nixon in bold black ink at the top of the page, with the signature receiving a perfect GEM MT 10 grading from PSA/DNA. This document is encapsulated in a tamper-proof PSA slab, ensuring both the protection and authenticity of the artifact, with the PSA certification number 85221607 prominently displayed.

The speech is one of Nixon’s most memorable public statements, where he fiercely defended his personal integrity amid increasing scrutiny and allegations related to the Watergate scandal. In this transcript, Nixon discusses his personal finances and directly addresses accusations of profiting from public service, famously declaring, “I am not a crook.”

Transcript of the Speech:

Let me just respond, if I could, sir, before going to your question—I will turn left and then come back to the right. I don’t want to tilt either way at the moment, as you can be sure—since the question was raised a moment ago about my tax payments.

I want to say first, that is all I have. I am the first President since Harry Truman who hasn’t inherited property. You’ll remember that President Johnson had a lot of land down in Texas. I have my house in San Clemente, which we have built and is not in my name, but that’s all I have. Everything I have is in that home. We are not wealthy. I have nothing against people being wealthy. But I believe that each one of us should follow the law and pay taxes as he should, and that is what I have done.

Now, let me just say this, and I want to say this to the television audience: I made my mistakes, but in all my years of public life, I have never profited, never profited from public service—I’ve earned every cent. And in all of my years of public life, I have never obstructed justice. People have got to know whether or not their President is a crook. Well, I’m not a crook. I’ve earned everything I’ve got.

Historical Background: Richard Nixon's declaration of "I am not a crook" was made in response to growing allegations regarding his involvement in the Watergate scandal, as well as concerns about his personal finances and tax returns. During the press conference at the Associated Press Managing Editors annual convention in Orlando, Florida, Nixon famously defended his integrity, despite the ongoing investigations.

The Watergate scandal, which had begun with a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters in 1972, eventually led to Nixon’s resignation in August 1974. This speech, however, remains one of the most quoted moments of his presidency, underscoring his defense in the face of mounting accusations.

Condition: The typescript and Nixon’s signature are in excellent condition, with the ink and paper showing no signs of wear. Nixon’s signature has been graded GEM MT 10 by PSA/DNA, ensuring that it is of the highest quality. The typescript is housed in a PSA-certified tamper-proof slab to protect and preserve its integrity.

Certification: PSA/DNA Certification Number 85221607. The document is securely encapsulated in a PSA-graded slab for verification and protection.

Collector’s Note: This signed typescript from Nixon’s "I am not a crook" speech is a highly significant piece of American political history. As one of Nixon’s most infamous public statements during the Watergate scandal, it carries tremendous historical and cultural weight. The GEM MT 10 graded signature ensures its desirability among collectors of political memorabilia and autographs. This item is perfect for those interested in Watergate-era history and Nixon’s embattled presidency.