The first Mafia member to publicly acknowledge its existence (1903-1971), whose exploits were publicized by the movie The Valachi Papers, starring Charles Bronson as Joe Valachi. ALS signed “Joe,” one lightly-lined page, 8 x 12.5, July 19, 1965. Letter to Dorothy Ball, in part: “Well well, my sincerest congratulation, I wish you every happiness in the world, and it comes right from the heart. Of course send me the photo of both you and your husband, did you need to ask? Well you should know that I would be at the reception if I could…Glad to hear that you have a fine husband, of course you are a nice girl too, so he should thank the lord for finding such a fine girl like you…Tell him I said lots of luck to him for marrying such a fine and beautiful girl…I don't approve you going to work, you should take the whole summer off, nothing new on the book, but he still says everything will be in our favor." Handsomely suede-matted and framed between an image and two engraved descriptive plaques to an overall size of 28.5 x 20, with the frame backing bearing an engraved transcription. In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope addressed in his own hand and a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA..
