Modern Magic Masters
Sat, Aug 15, 2026 11:00AM EDT
Lot 81
Harry and Bess Houdini Presentation Handcuffs and Key.
Estimate: $5,000 - $10,000
Sold for
$26,400
Sold Price includes BP
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $5 |
| $30 | $10 |
| $100 | $25 |
| $500 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $200 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 |
HOUDINI, Harry (Erik Weisz, 1874 - 1926). Harry and Bess Houdini Presentation Handcuffs and Key. A pair of Darby handcuffs with screw-type key, mounted to a wooden plaque above an engraved plaque that reads, "To Bert Kalmar / Master Magician / An Old Friend / Of the Family / Mrs. Harry Houdini." Hanging chain at rear. 12 x 9".
Bert Kalmar began his career in showbiz as a variety artist and boy magician in and around New York, where he became acquainted with the Houdinis. Years later, after winning international fame as a songwriter and music publisher, he again became intimately acquainted with Mrs. Houdini when she resettled in Hollywood after Houdini's passing. This is only the second such set of Houdini handcuffs mounted to a plaque by the Houdini family with which we are acquainted.
Condition
Scuffs and soiling to plaque and tarnish to cuffs.
Available payment options
If your bid is successful, as an alternative to in-house shipping, we can provide you with a list of shippers. We will not be responsible for the acts or omissions of carriers or packers whether or not recommended by us. Property will not be released to the shipper without the buyer's written consent and until payment has been made in full. Packing and handling by us of purchased lots is at the entire risk of the purchaser, and Potter and Potter Auctions, Inc. will have no liability of any loss or damage to such items. Packing and shipping expenses shall be added to buyer's invoice and will reflect a charge for labor, materials, insurance, transportation, as well as actual shipper fees.
Collection of Bert Kalmar, passed to the consignor by descent.
