Weird Tales! UFOs, Curiosities and Tattoos
Thu, Oct 1, 2026 11:00AM EDT
Lot 309
SPRAGUE, Isaac (1841–87). Sideshow Skeleton Man Cabinet Card. Boonton, N.J.: Wendt, ca. 1880s.
Estimate: $100 - $200
Sold for
$180
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 |
SPRAGUE, Isaac (1841–87). Sideshow Skeleton Man Cabinet Card. Boonton, N.J.: Wendt, ca. 1880s. Albumen print on studio mount depicting the performer in chains and handcuffs.
6 1/2 x 4 1/4".
Sprague, billed as the living human skeleton, joined P.T. Barnum’s circus in 1866 to work at his American Museum Freak Show. Weighing in at only 63 pounds, Sprague suffered from a condition known as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects the connective tissues of the body, giving a skeletal appearance. Despite his unique condition, Sprague lived a relatively long life, passing away at the age of 46.
Condition
Faded.
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.
