The Billionaire Collection

Rare P.T. Barnum Signed 1888 Autographed Copy of the “Life of P. T. Barnum”

“No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else.” -P.T. Barnum

Barnum was an entrepreneur from an early age. Phineas Taylor (P.T.) Barnum, born July 5, 1810.
Barnum’s knack for moneymaking first manifested during his youth in Bethel, Connecticut. The born entrepreneur, and future showman, sold snacks and homemade cherry rum during local gatherings, and by age 12, he had made enough money to purchase his own livestock. By 21, his holdings also included a general store that unfortunately failed, a small lottery that didn’t fair well, and even his own newspaper called the “Herald of Freedom”, that was unfortunately sued several times for libel and he eventually served time in jail.

But his unbelievable perseverance, keen understanding of what would excite people's interest and maybe his greatest talent, his ability to promote led him to his biggest idea, his circus. In 1871, calling it "P.T. Barnum's Grand Traveling Museum, Menagerie, Caravan and Circus." In 1881 Barnum partnered with James Bailey, creating the name we know today "Barnum and Bailey's Greatest Show on Earth."

This incredible signed copy of the “Life of P. T. Barnum” is a later printing and autobiography of who could be considered the Greatest marketer of all time. Printed in 1888, it’s Hardcover is in beautiful condition, 5.25 x 7.75, 357 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page in ink, "Editor Morning News with the author's compliments, P. T. Barnum, Feb 8th 1888," with a gift inscription in another hand below. A tiny 'Barnum Autobiography' booklet affixed to front pastedown, and newspaper clippings affixed to rear endpapers. This is an incredible find and a beautiful addition to any private library.

As with all of our autographs, this one has been authenticated by third party experts from the top authenticators in the country, and notarized certificates of authenticity are included in a black leather portfolio.  Copies of the original authentications are kept on file with Billionaire Collectibles and can be retrieved by the original purchaser.

We stand 100% behind all of our works of art, and offer a lifetime guarantee on every piece, for as long as you own it.