Autographs
Novelist Dashiell Hammett Known for “The Maltese Falcon” and “The Thin Man” Signs His MGM Contract
DASHIELL HAMMETT (1894-1961). American Novelist and Screenwriter, known for “The Maltese Falcon,” plus “The Thin Man” and others.
January 12, 1938-Dated Typed Letter Signed, “Dashiell Hammett,” 1 page, measures 8.5” x 11” on Metro-Goldwyn Mayer Pictures letterhead, Choice Crisp Extremely Fine. This impressive Signed Letter reads, in full:

“Dear Mr. Hammett: -- Concurrently herewith we are handing you the sum of Seventy-five Hundred Dollars ($7500.00), which sum shall be deemed to be an advance and which may be applied by us against sums which may hereafter be payable to you under your contract with

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Corporation (whose rights thereunder have heretofore been assigned to the undersigned), dated April 13, 1937. It is, of course, understood that the payment of this sum shall not be deemed to affect any of the provisions of said contract.

If the foregoing is in accordance with your understanding and agreement, kindly indicate your approval and acceptance thereof in the space hereinbelow provided. - (Signed at the close in dark black ink) Dashiell Hammett and (Countersigned by the Assistant Secretary of Loew’s Inc.).

An important Signed Contract Agreement from Hammett in which he agrees to the receipt of an advance for services. In exceptional, clean and crisp condition with two original binder holes at the top and having excellent eye appeal for display. Dashiell Hammett’s full signature measures a large 2.5” long in black ink where he signs his approval of this agreement with MGM.