HOUDINI, Harry (Erik Weisz, 1874 - 1926). Houdini's Engraved Magicians' Club Badge. [London, ca. 1911]. Gold plated and enameled medallion hanging from a silk ribbon supported by a brass pinback. The medallion itself has been cast in the shape of the Magicians' Club of London logo, being a seated sphinx figure before a pyramid. HOUDINI'S OWN BADGE; engraved on the verso are two sets of initials: EW (for Erik Weisz), and HH (for Harry Houdini). 

Houdini served as president of this magic club from its inception in 1911 until his passing in 1926. The organization was founded by his good friend Will Goldston, the dynamic magic dealer, author, and publisher who operated several successful magic businesses in London. The two men kept up a lively correspondence for nearly two decades, and Goldston would publish Houdini's Magical Rope Ties & Escapes in 1922. Badges from the organization seldom come to market, and this example, owned by Houdini and linking him to the club over which he presided as its chief officer, is particularly special.