Born Albino Luciani. He was elected Pope on August 26, 1978. After Luciani's election, the mood appears to have been one of widespread optimism and John Paul established himself by taking the names of his two predecessors - John XXIII and Paul VI - to represent a combination of their qualities: one progressive, the other traditional. Eschewing the normally lavish coronation, John Paul quickly captured the media's support with an unplanned press conference, but this hopeful mood ended with his sudden death, of a heart attack, thirty-four days later. Pre-printed Christmas card, in Italian, signed “A. Luciani,” one page, 6.5 x 4.5, bearing a pre-printed verse from Luke along the top and “The Patriarch of Venice heartily reciprocates your wishes for a good Christmas and a Happy New Year with greetings and blessings.” In very fine condition, with a small notation to top right corner. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
