Sometimes history appears in the most unexpected ways, and this 1907 Jack London signed postcard is a perfect example—an RPPC (real photo postcard) featuring a grinning photograph of London, a handwritten message, a playful caricature, and a personal connection to one of America's most celebrated authors.
Sent to Blanche Partington, a literary journalist and one of London’s admirers, the postcard includes a funny drawing of a man cooking fish on the beach. London, never one to take himself too seriously, used the image as inspiration for his note:
"Dear Blanche – No, I am not a vegetarian. Jack London."
Postmarked Honolulu, Hawaii, August 9, 1907, the card comes from London’s voyage aboard his yacht, the Snark, a sailing adventure that would later inspire his book, The Cruise of the Snark. In 2021, Britannic Auctions sold this signed postcard for $799, a great price for a unique piece of correspondence.
A Postcard with Personality
Jack London’s signature shows up in many forms, but this one has plenty of charm. It’s not just a signed name on a page—it’s a personal exchange between London and a fellow writer. Addressed to Partington’s San Francisco home, the card hints at her affections for London, though his heart belonged to Charmian London, his second wife and lifelong muse.
The postcard is professionally matted and framed by Bryan Nerone & Co., a Beverly Hills dealer specializing in literary autographs. A burled wood frame keeps with the Pacific Islands theme, and the clear panel on the reverse lets the recipient’s handwritten address remain visible.
Jack London’s Signature: What’s It Worth?
Jack London’s autograph remains popular among collectors, but values vary widely depending on what’s signed. A simple cut signature sells for much less than a full signed letter or a book he personally inscribed. Signed personal checks are especially desirable because they serve as verifiable financial documents and add an extra layer of authenticity.
These differ from his first edition books, which can command strong prices even without his signature. For example, a first edition, first issue of The Call of the Wild sold for $2,500 in 2022, featuring a clipped, laid-in signature dated 1908. While signed books often bring higher premiums, standalone autographs, letters, and personal documents remain highly collectible as well.
Here are a few examples of what London’s signature has sold for at auction:
- Jack London cut signature, dated 1913 – Sold for $105 (2020)
- Handwritten signed check, March 18, 1911 – Sold for $359 (2012)
- Typed letter signed with handwritten correction – Sold for $375 (2017, Swann Auction Galleries)
- Full-page autograph letter signed, discussing his short stories – Sold for $11,352 (2010, Heritage Auctions)
The more personal the item, the more valuable it tends to be. A full letter, especially one referencing his writing, carries far more weight than just his name on a slip of paper.
Get a Free Valuation for a Jack London Signature or First Edition
If you're interested in selling a Jack London signature or first edition at auction with us, we offer complimentary valuations for these sorts of items. Explore the benefits of consigning at auction with us, such as our flat, all-inclusive consignment rate and global exposure.
