Lot 1691

MELVIN PURVIS

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MELVIN PURVIS

Estimate: $200 - $300

Starting Bid: $100

(0 Bids)

by Alexander Historical Auctions LLC
July 31, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
Live Auction
106 East Main Street, Suite 103
Elkton, MD, US 21921

MELVIN PURVIS
(1903 - 1960) Federal Justice Department agent who orchestrated the ambush of John Dillinger. T.L.S. on Department of Justice Division of Investigation letterhead (pre-dates the creation of the F.B.I.), 1p. 4to., Chicago, Dec. 11, 1934. One year after the shooting of John Dillinger, Purvis corresponds with a man in Chicago concerning a report of someone impersonating a Justice Department agent. In part: ‘...The letter referred to does not contain sufficient information...to institute an investigation...it is requested you advise me of the full name and address of 'Gaff' so that he may be interviewed...furnish me with any additional information...' Paperclip stain at top, else very good.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000