Partially printed DS as president, one page on vellum, 13.5 x 16.5, February 21, 1863. A promotion for Stephen B. Luce as Lieutenant Commander in the Navy. Lincoln’s appointee, (1827–1917), eventually rose to the rank of admiral. In the 1880s, Luce founded the Naval War College at Newport, Rhode Island, and served as its first president. (Please note that we are also offering, as a separate lot, another document issued to Luce, signed by Zachary Taylor.) Countersigned by Gideon Welles as Secretary of the Navy. The vibrant orange embossed paper seal remains intact at lower center. Matted and framed with an engraved plaque to an overall size of 20.5 x 27.5. A few tiny, completely unobtrusive marginal stains, subtle blotting to first name from excess ink, and slightly irregular ink adhesion to a few letters of last name, otherwise fine, fresh, bright condition. An attractive example with a most notable association! Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA. Oversized.