In 1976, this image appeared on the cover for the book, I Married Wyatt Earp: The Recollections of Josephine Sarah Marcus collected and edited by Glenn G. Boyer. The supposed scantily-clad woman was of Josephine in her 20s, and based on the popularity of the book, copies of the image were later sold at auction for up to $2,875. In 1994, Western researchers identified discrepancies in the book and began to challenge the authenticity of the manuscript. It was discovered that the risqué cover image was linked to a photogravure titled Kaloma and first published by a novelty company in 1914. It was originally produced as an art print. Kaloma’s popularity continued as she became a pinup during WWI, and appeared after the war on post cards. After discrete airbrushing darkened her peignoir, Kaloma appeared in other popular advertising. There is still a great debate, whether it’s Josephine Earp or not. All I know is, she’s hot, shrouded in mystery and it’s good ol’ American history.
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