Rare and historic Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences "Certificate of Nomination for Award" presented to screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz for Citizen Kane, 10 x 11.5, in full: "Be it known that Herman J. Mankiewicz was nominated for an Academy Award of Merit for Outstanding Achievement, Original Screenplay, 'Citizen Kane,' This judgment being rendered with reference to Motion Pictures First Regularly Exhibited in the Los Angeles district during the year ending January 12, 1942." Signed at the conclusion in fountain pen by Walter Wanger as president of the Academy, and countersigned by Jane Murfin as secretary. The gold foil seal affixed at the lower left remains intact. In fine condition.
Given virtual carte blanche by RKO Studios to make the motion picture of his choice, the 25-year-old Orson Welles chose to collaborate on an original script by Herman J. Mankiewicz—this would become Citizen Kane, one of the most acclaimed films of the 20th century. Though nominated for nine Oscars, this—'Best Writing, Original Screenplay'—was the only category in which it won, a prize shared by Welles and Mankiewicz. A superior piece of Hollywood history, representing the enduring success of Citizen Kane.
