The World’s Biggest Autograph Collection Is Up for Sale
A remarkable piece of history is up for sale — one that has traveled the globe and captured the signatures of some of the most influential figures of the early 20th century. The leather-bound autograph album of Joseph F. Mikulec, a Croatian adventurer known as the “Globe-Trotter,” is being offered by the Raab Collection for a staggering $275,000.
Over the course of his extraordinary journey, Mikulec walked across six continents, collecting autographs from politicians, artists, athletes, and royalty. This incredible book is a testament to his tireless quest for connection and documentation, and it’s now available to collectors and history enthusiasts alike.
What’s for Sale?
Currently listed for $275,000 by the Raab Collection, this extraordinary book bears the names and marks of some of history’s most notable figures. The massive (and we do mean massive), meticulously curated collection is essentially a scrapbook of the world, John Hancock style. It contains around 60,000 signatures and weighs a whopping 60 pounds.
What’s Inside?
Opening this book is like unsealing a time capsule of human achievement. Among its pages lie the signatures of influential figures like Theodore Roosevelt, Thomas Edison, Andrew Carnegie, and Woodrow Wilson. Each signature is a story in itself — a snapshot of the moment these individuals contributed to this grand work. Beyond the names, the book also includes personal notes, sketches, and inscriptions, making it a multifaceted relic.
Who’s Behind This Colossal Collection?
The mind behind this monumental creation is Joseph Mikulec, a Croatian man known as “The Globe-Trotter.” Mikulec’s passion for history and culture drove him to gather what would become one of the world’s most impressive autograph collections. He was a self-made historian with a mission: to create a volume that would bring together the signatures and inscriptions of luminaries across various fields, from politics and royalty to literature and the arts. Mikulec didn’t discriminate, though; he collected signatures from any and everyone, “pauper to prince.” He walked more than 200,000 miles around 43 different countries, collecting signatures everywhere he went — including the White House, where he was able to nab the signatures of six different presidents. His commitment to authenticity and preservation ensured that the book would stand the test of time, amassing both historical and sentimental value.
The Legacy and Preservation of the Book
The book’s survival is a testament to its enduring value and the care it has received through the years. Passed from generation to generation, this work has remained intact even through periods of war, social upheaval, and the passage of time (Mikulec died in 1933). Today, it is a legacy to both the individuals who signed it and to Mikulec’s vision of preserving their memory.
How Can You Buy the Book?
You can buy the autograph collection on Raab’s website. While there is a currency converter for several different currencies, Raab only accepts payment in US dollars. The purchasing process is pretty straightforward — all you have to do is input your card information, billing address, and shipping address. One caveat to keep in mind, though, is that the tax on this massive autograph collection is $16,500, bringing your grand total up to nearly $300,000 (shipping and handling is “complimentary”).