DOWNS, T. Nelson (1867 - 1938). T. Nelson Downs. King of Koins. Chicago: Carqueville Litho., ca. 1905. Artistically rendered color lithograph bearing a central bust portrait of Downs surrounded by vignettes of his coin manipulation act, ribbons of silver coins, and soft red flowers. A filmstrip-like sequence from his famous Miser's Dream fills the bottom of the poster, showing six poses from Downs? famous feat, The Miser?s Dream. 28 1/2 x 42". Linen backed. 

This is the only full color lithograph produced for Downs and his specialized magic act. The magician rose to fame from humble beginnings, starting life on an Iowa farm. As a young man he worked as a telegraph operator. It was during this period that he learned how to manipulate coins. His dexterity, combined with considerable showmanship, catapulted Downs to vaudeville and music hall fame in America and abroad. He returned to Iowa in his later years and operated several businesses in Marshalltown. 

Clean and bright with small marginal chips and losses repaired. A-.