The Chase National Bank check, 6.25 x 2.75, neatly filled out and signed by Dean, "James Dean," payable to himself, "James Dean," for $20, February 17, 1954. Endorsed on the reverse in ballpoint, "James Dean,” above a 54th Street Tavern Inc. stamp; Dean hung out at the 54th Street Tavern, an establishment that would cash his checks and that is mentioned in all of Dean's biographies. In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA and a modern glossy photo. Dean would leave New York for Los Angeles on April 8, 1954, to begin shooting Elia Kazan's East of Eden, the role that would garner him the first posthumous acting nomination in the history of the Academy Awards. Triple-signed checks from Dean remain quite rare and are highly coveted by collectors.
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