Arnold Rothstein was the kingpin of organized crime in New York City during the early portion of the 20^th century. A calculating businessman and a prodigious gambler, Rothstein amassed a monumental fortune from his varied interests, legal or otherwise, which included a casino, a horse racing outfit, and bootlegging liquor during Prohibition. Rothstein’s criminal empire included many underlings who would later make their own mark on organized crime in the United States, including Lucky Luciano, Meyer Lansky, and Legs Diamond. Allegedly, Rothstein was also involved in fixing the infamous 1919 “Black Sox” World Series, although neither he nor the players involved were ever indicted or charged with any crimes. In 1928, Rothstein was murdered in retaliation for racking up a large gambling debt in a three-day poker game, which he refused to pay as he believed the game was fixed.

This letter was typed by Rothstein, and sent to his business partner and confidant A.L. Libman. It was typed on Arnold Rothstein & Co. Inc. letterhead on August 22^nd, 1922. The letter reads, “My Dear Abe: Enclosed find check for $79.32, which is payment you advanced for M.J. Regan to the Columbian National. Very Truly Yours, Arnold Rothstein”. Rothstein has signed this letter in black pen. This letter comes with a LOA from Steve Grad of Beckett Authentication (A86052).

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