Partly-printed war-dated DS, one page, 17 x 14, September 27, 1864. Lincoln appoints A. Rettberg to the position of “Consul of Hanover at Cleveland, in the State of Ohio.” Signed at the conclusion, “Abraham Lincoln,” and countersigned by Secretary of State William Seward. In very good condition, with intersecting storage folds, uniform overall toning and an area of light staining over the lower left quadrant, some small creases and tears to edges, as well as some light damp staining, which could be matted out. The white wafer seal is intact, with ray-like wrinkling surrounding it. Lincoln’s full signature is unaffected by any flaws, remaining crisp and bold.
As the Civil War continued, Lincoln recognized the importance of maintaining positive relations with foreign lands, particularly those in Europe. Lincoln knew that the longer the fight between the North and the South, the more the Confederate States of America would gain momentum as a sovereign nation. Lincoln was also cognizant of the role European immigrants played not only in his election and subsequent re-election a few months earlier, as well as the number of German-speaking immigrants enlisted in the Union Army. To keep relations with countries such as Hanover was of vital importance. Interestingly, two years later, Hanover became a province of Prussia, and with his representation no longer needed, King Wilhelm I requested that President Andrew Johnson recall Rettberg as a consular officer. A nice glimpse into international dealings during the Civil War. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
