Mao's letter bearing his and Zhu De's signatures. [Photo provided to China Daily]

10. Letter to UK politician from Chairman Mao, $908,000, Dec 15

A rare letter from Chinese leader Mao Zedong written to the leader of Britain's Labour Party appealing for help in fighting the Japanese invaders in 1937 sold at auction for 605,000 pounds ($908,000), nearly six times more than its estimated price, London-based auctioneers Sotheby's said.

The letter, signed by Mao and Zhu De, one of the founders of the People's Liberation Army, was acquired by an anonymous Chinese buyer.

It was addressed to Major Clement Atlee, leader of Britain's opposition Labour Party at the time, asking for "the support of your Party to any measures of practical assistance to China that may be organized in Great Britain".

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