Civil War general and Indian fighter (1839–1876) who distinguished himself as a cavalry commander, earning the rank of brigadier general of volunteers at age 23. Following the Civil War he became field commander of the 7th Cavalry and led troops in a number of engagements during the Indian Wars. Custer, together with all of the men under his immediate command, was killed at the Battle of Little Bighorn on June 25, 1876. Partly-printed DS, signed “G. A. Custer,” one page, 15.5 x 9.75, April 7, 1875. Custer, as Lieutenant Colonel of the Cavalry appoints “Joseph A. McClure…Corporal in Company E of the Seventh Regiment of Cavalry in the service of the United States.” Robustly signed at the bottom by Custer, “G. A. Custer,” and countersigned by commanding officer W. W. Cook. Cloth matted and framed with an image of Custer and a biographical plaque, to an overall size of 32 x 23.25. Intersecting folds, scattered light toning and foxing, and show-through from docketing on reverse, otherwise fine condition.
This stunning commission, ornately imprinted with the American eagle bearing a shield and clutching arrows and an olive branch beneath the heading, “The Commanding Officer of the Seventh Regiment of Cavalry,” holds one of the finest Custer autographs we have ever seen. The counter-signature by William Winer Cooke, 1st Lieutenant Colonel of Cavalry and Adjutant of the Regiment, adds greatly to this document’s desirability: Cooke, a member of the so-called “Custer Gang,” was one of the commander’s most loyal men and remained so until the end. He was found by Custer’s side on the fields at Little Bighorn in 1876. Rarely seen and never before offered through RR Auction, this 7th Cavalry appointment is a truly remarkable piece. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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