In 1951, Prince Rainier thanked the Monaco Red Cross for a donation to help the principality's less fortunate.
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Letter signed by Prince Rainier of Monaco to the Monaco Red Cross.
- One page, in French.
- Palace of Monaco, March 12, 1951.
- In good condition.
- Unique piece.
Portuguese translation
Palace of Monaco, March 12, 1951.
Mr. President,
I received, through Mr. Astrio, Artistic Director of the International Sporting Club, the generous donation that Your Lordship sent in favor of the Works of the Monegasque Red Cross.
I do not believe it is necessary to reiterate how much your attention has moved me and to assure you that your delicate gesture will allow us to help all those who, unfortunately in large numbers, even in my small country, are in need of help and assistance.
Please accept, Mr President, the expression of my most distinguished sentiments.
Rainier Prince of Monaco
Mr. Henri Le Roux
Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of SBM
Monte Carlo
Rainier III of Monaco (1923-2005) was the sovereign prince of Monaco from 1949 to 2005, and was one of the most influential monarchs in the principality's history. Known as the "Builder Prince", he modernized Monaco's economy, promoting tourism and developing the entertainment industry, as well as expanding the country's territory with the creation of the Fontvieille district.
He married American actress Grace Kelly in 1956, combining Hollywood glamour with European royalty, which brought Monaco great international attention. During his reign, Rainier consolidated the sovereignty of the principality, reinforcing its political and financial independence.
It is interesting to note that even in a country known for its wealth and luxury, such as Monaco, there were people in need of help and assistance, as mentioned in the letter. This reality humanizes the context of the principality and highlights the importance of social support and humanitarian actions, promoted by the Monégasque Red Cross, by Prince Rainier himself, and later by his wife Grace Kelly.
This letter was written early in the Prince's reign, before his marriage to Grace, which makes it even rarer. We also like the coat of arms of the principality and, of course, Rainier's large signature.