Presidential pen collections are fast becoming among the hobby’s most desired political keepsakes, one recent sale eclipsing the $25,000 plateau. A necessary addition to even the most inclusive collections is this ceremonial pen that celebrates President Carter’s signing into law the “Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act.” As a token of his appreciation for a fellow statesmen’s support, Carter furnished Congressman Charlie Bennett with this commemorative pen and included with it a corresponding letter, boldly signed in black ink. Dated September 6, 1979, and typed on White House letterhead, the message reads in full: “On July 30, 1979, I was pleased to sign into law H.R. 2154, a bill to revise the Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act. Your unceasing efforts, personal involvement, and outstanding leadership were essential to the enactment of this legislation. In appreciation for your dedication and commitment to the passage of this bill, I would like you to have the enclosed pen commemorating the signing of this Act. Please accept my personal thanks and congratulations along with this memento.” Taking full advantage of the items’ presentation potential, an advanced political collector took it upon himself to pair the pieces in one alluring 9.5 x 12.75 shadowbox display. Set at the top of the framed arrangement is the 4.25 x 6.5 letter, and below is the commemorative pen that bears the president's embossed name. The letter shows toning confined to its edges, but condition is otherwise fine. An impressive relic of Carter’s presidency! RRAuction COA.
