Lauren Bacall Signed Photo, 1944 “Betty” Inscription, Stamped by Bert Six

Lauren Bacall Signed 1944 Studio Portrait with Personal Inscription

This original Lauren Bacall signed photo is a gorgeous 1944 portrait by Bert Six, known for his Hollywood photography. The image captures Bacall wearing pearls to promote her breakout role in To Have and Have Not. This signed photograph was auctioned for $434 in December 2022.

Bacall inscribed the photo to Warner Brothers' publicity man Robert Graham Wahn, writing: “For Graham – All of my best and thanks so much for all. Betty.”

Bacall’s real name was Betty Joan Perske. After her parents divorced, her mother adopted part of her maiden name, Weinstein-Bacal, and changed their last name to Bacal. When Bacall was signed to a Hollywood contract by director Howard Hawks, he changed her first name to Lauren to downplay her Jewish heritage. Although "Lauren Bacall" became her stage name and public identity, she was never fully comfortable with the name. In her personal life, and in private inscriptions like this one, she was always "Betty."

Bert Six: Master of Hollywood Glamour Portraits

The back of the photo features the official stamp of Hollywood glamour photographer Bert Six. During Hollywood's golden era, Six led Warner Brothers' still photography department. He began his career in 1934 and quickly gained a reputation for capturing stunning portraits of the era’s top actresses. By the 1940s, he was the head of the studio’s still department, producing images that defined pictures of this era.

Value of "To Have and Have Not" (1944) Memorabilia

The 1944 film To Have and Have Not marked the unforgettable first screen pairing of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall. Their on-screen chemistry was electric and led to a real-life romance that captivated the public. Directed by Howard Hawks and loosely based on Ernest Hemingway’s novel, the story unfolds during World War II and became known for its witty dialogue and the birth of one of Hollywood’s most legendary couples.

Original memorabilia from To Have and Have Not holds strong appeal among collectors. A vintage oversize portrait of Bacall from her role in the film, taken by Bert Six, sold for $1,562 in 2024 at Heritage Auctions (including buyer’s premium). This photo was an original gelatin silver matte double-weight print with Six's studio credit stamp on the back, adding to its desirability.

Autographed items featuring both Humphrey Bogart and Bacall fetch impressive prices as well. In 2023, a single-page autograph album signed by both stars sold for $1,750 (JSA authenticated).

On the other hand, later reprinted photos signed by Bacall later in life generally sell anywhere from $40 to $100 or so at auction. These photos are less sought-after because they are not original “type 1” studio photos from the 1940s. Additionally, signatures obtained during Bacall’s later years lack the punch of autographs signed when she was actively starring in defining roles like this one.

Collectors looking for authentic, early memorabilia often look for original studio-stamped photos or signed items tied directly to the movie’s 1944 release.

Find Out the Value of Your Lauren Bacall Signed Photo

Do you have a Lauren Bacall signed photo or other classic Hollywood autograph? Original stills or autographs from the films of Bogie and Bacall remain highly sought after by collectors.

Britannic Auctions offers complimentary valuations to help you understand your item’s worth. Whether it’s a signed studio portrait or vintage memorabilia, our experts can guide you.

Sign up for auction alerts or learn more about consigning your Hollywood memorabilia with us today!