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Houdini Returns: The Centennial Auction

Sat, Oct 31, 2026 04:00PM EDT
  2026-10-31 16:00:00 2026-10-31 16:00:00 America/New_York Potter & Potter Auctions Potter & Potter Auctions : Houdini Returns: The Centennial Auction https://auction.potterauctions.com/auctions/potter-potter/houdini-returns-the-centennial-auction-23392
Marking 100 years since the death of Harry Houdini, Potter & Potter will present a landmark sale of Houdini memorabilia on October 31, 2026 at the famed Magic Castle in Hollywood, California. The sale brings to the public for the very first time 100 historic items from the collection of Kevin Connolly, many of which were personally owned by Houdini.

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HOUDINI, Harry (Erik Weisz, 1874 - 1926). Kessner Packers Houdini Challenge.
Lot 67

HOUDINI, Harry (Erik Weisz, 1874 - 1926). Kessner Packers Houdini Challenge.

Estimate: $600 - $1,200
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Starting Bid
$300
Bid increments chart

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). Kessner Packers Houdini Challenge. [New York], 1912. Letterpress handbill advertising Houdini's acceptance of a challenge from the packing department of Kessner's department store to free himself from a case built on stage at Hammerstein's Roof Garden. Houdini will make his escape on July 19, 1912. 8 1/2 x 5 3/8". 

Interestingly, the text of this challenge notes Houdini's success in a previous similar stunt posed to him by Kessner's packing department. "On close examination ... we find traces of some heavy instrument made use of. ... We challenge you again, to escape from another case, first allowing us to thoroughly search you, and to remove your clothing, and have you dress in an athletic suit, which we will furnish ...." 

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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.

Kevin Connolly collection.

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