Archduke of Austria (1863-1914) whose assassination precipitated the start of World War I. Large and boldly penned fountain pen signature of Franz Ferdinand on an off-white 8.5 x 4.5 sheet, with the archduke dating the autograph to June 2, 1908. In fine condition, with show-through from unrelated signatures on the reverse. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder.