Ink signature of President Abraham Lincoln, "A. Lincoln,” on an off-white 3.5 x 2.25 card. In fine condition, with a couple of trivial stains to the left edge. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as "GEM MT 10."
Accompanied by a copy of the original Civil War-dated Executive Mansion letter from President LIncoln’s private secretary, John George Nicolay, sent to W. H. DeMotte on September 12, 1864, which reads: “Herewith I send you a number of the President’s autographs for the Indianapolis Sanitary Fair. He has been unable to find time to write more.”
A rare and pristine example of President Abraham Lincoln's signature on a card, which, in essence, serves as an early precursor to what would later be recognized as ‘White House cards.’ This artifact offers a fascinating glimpse into the Civil War era and was originally accompanied by a letter written by Lincoln’s private secretary, John George Nicolay, and sent to Indiana Military and Sanitary Agent William H. DeMotte on September 12, 1864. As the letter affirms, Lincoln forwarded his autograph in support of the Indianapolis Sanitary Fair, a fundraising event organized to provide critical aid to Union soldiers during the Civil War.
This signature, preserved as a PSA GEM MT 10 example, stands as a testament to Lincoln’s leadership and the collective effort of a nation at war. Its historical significance makes it a true treasure, offering a tangible connection to one of the most pivotal moments in American history.
