The Peter Benchley Collection: Jaws, A Life of Writing, A Legacy of Ocean Conservation.

2 Robert L. Knudsen and Abbie Rowe Gelatin Silver Publicity Photographs Jonathan Visits the White House

This auction ended on October 29, 2026.

Start price: $50

Estimated price: $100 - $200

Buyer's Premium: 25%

Not sold

Description

Two vintage gelatin silver publicity photographs related to the 1964 publication of the book Jonathan Visits the White House. The images depict Lynda Bird Johnson, daughter of President Lyndon B. Johnson, alongside a young boy and Peter Benchley on a staircase within the White House. The photographs are accompanied by a handwritten note and a manila folder with blue ink notations from Wendy Benchley. The verso of one photograph is stamped in black 31397-10 11 FEB 1964 and faintly typed ROBERT L. KNUDSEN THE WHITE HOUSE. The verso of the second photograph is stamped in purple WHITE HOUSE 10 FEB 1964 and Abbie Rowe, with a handwritten notation in red ink 8401-A. 8 1/4" H x 10" W.

From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.

Proceeds from the Peter Benchley Collection will benefit five ocean conservation organizations: Peter Benchley Ocean Awards, WildAid, Beneath the Waves, Blue Frontier, and Environmental Defense Fund.


Condition report:

Both photographs exhibit minor curling across the paper surface. One photograph has a yellow adhesive note attached directly to the upper left quadrant of the image surface from Wendy Benchley. The manila folder shows light handling wear and toning consistent with age at the edges.