Born Karol Wojtyla in 1920, John Paul II served as the 264th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church from 1978 until his death in 2005. Color glossy 4 x 5.75 photo, signed in black felt tip, "Joannes Paulus II." Photo also bears an embossed photographer's stamp to lower right corner. In fine condition, with portion of signature over embossed stamp, slight show-through from writing on reverse along bottom, and some scattered light surface marks. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope bearing a 2001 Vatican postmark. A desirable image of one of history's most popular popes. RRAuction COA.