An upcoming auction will bring a second "black book," once owned by the controversial figure Jeffrey Epstein, back into public awareness this May.

According to Radar Online, the book, set to be auctioned by Alexander Historical Auctions on May 15, may go for a second round of bidding on July 12 if initial offers do not meet expectations.

This ledger contains the names and contacts of 220 high-profile individuals, creating a frenzy among collectors and journalists alike.

Discovery in New York's East Village

The address book was found in the 1990s on Fifth Avenue in the dense and vibrant East Village neighborhood of New York City. Its discovery raises questions as it came from a location associated with Epstein's residences, hinting at another undisclosed connection.

This additional book divulges names not found in previous records, including Suzanne Ircha, Carl Icahn, and John Catsimatidis.

It's believed that the majority of the listed individuals had casual or nonexistent relations with Epstein and were not directly involved in any criminal activities linked to him.

Auction Estimate and Expectations

Bill Panagopulos, owner of the auction house handling this sale, estimates the book could fetch between $100,000 and $200,000.

The fascination surrounding such items is due to their unique ties to high-profile legal and criminal histories.

"There are no comparables for the sale of this kind of relic. But, based on my experience, if I’m pressed to offer a price, I would think it would be $100,000 to $200,000 and up," Panagopulos commented on the book's potential worth.

Public and Personal Reactions

High-profile individuals listed in the book have varied responses to their inclusion. Marty Peretz, one of the named, expressed indifference: "I suppose he had a lot of names in his book. I don't care."  His detachment mirrors a common sentiment among many listed without any substantial connection to Epstein.

On the other hand, regarding his wife Cristina Greeven’s inclusion, Chris Cuomo reassured the public, "She has no comment. They have no contact. Absolutely no relationship." Their statements strive to distance themselves from the tainted legacy associated with Epstein.

Insider Perspectives on Epstein

Ann Nitze, a private art dealer also named in the book, shared her past interactions with Epstein briefly: "I may have had lunch with him once or twice. I wasn’t a serious friend... But he was very jolly and smart and I wouldn’t have predicted that he did what he did."

Despite the casual contact, Nitze expressed a straightforward view of the book’s significance, summarily dismissing its value while maintaining a critical stance on Epstein's actions.

Such reflections underscore the complex nature of Epstein's social web, which crossed paths with many who had minimal direct involvement.

Societal Implications of the Auction

The auction of Epstein’s secondary address book opens a new chapter in the infamous saga and highlights the layers of curiosity and condemnation surrounding his connections.

It raises ethical questions about the monetization of items linked to criminal histories and what this signifies about societal values.

While there is some debate over the collector's value of such items, critics like Nitze oppose attributing value to objects linked to disreputable histories, regardless of their famous names.

Conclusion

The auction of Jeffrey Epstein’s second black book, scheduled for May 15, is poised to rekindle interest and debate regarding his controversial connections. The book lists over 200 high-profile individuals, including Suzanne Ircha and Carl Icahn, yet bears no definitive ties to any criminal activities.

Public figures like Marty Peretz and Chris Cuomo have downplayed their involvement, reflecting the broad spectrum of reactions to Epstein’s notorious legacy. Notwithstanding personal views on its propriety, this auction could command a hefty sum, further cementing the bizarre legacy of Jeffrey Epstein in public consciousness.