Joan Fontaine's presentation script of Oscar best-picture champ "Rebecca" (1940) is expected to fetch $35,000 to $40,000 when it's auctioned on Dec. 15 by Bonhams & Butterfields.

The script is bound in maroon calf leather and cloth, embossed "Rebecca /Joan Fontaine" and was presented to her upon the completion of the film by producer David O. Selznick, who inscribed these words inside:

"For Joan, This souvenir of a struggle and a dream. May neither be forgotten too soon.  Yours with affection - until the adventure's sequel, David."

Fontaine was nominated for best actress for "Rebecca" but lost to Ginger Rogers ("Kitty Foyle"). She won the next year, however, for a film ("Suspicion") by the same director as "Rebecca." Despite five nominations, Alfred Hitchcock never won an Oscar. The year that "Rebecca" won best picture, the helmer's trophy went to John Ford ("The Grapes of Wrath").

(United Artists)