Clipped endorsement, signed “A. Lincoln,” on an off-white 2.75 x 1 lightly vertically lined slip. The body is written in secretary John Hay’s hand: “Let these men take the oath of Dec. 8, 1863”; Hay also adds the date the item was signed, “April 11, 1865.” Even in the midst of the Civil War, one of Lincoln’s primary concerns was a rapid return to normalcy during the process of Reconstruction. On December 8, 1863, he issued the Proclamation of Amnesty and Reconstruction, which provided a means of repatriating “those who resume their allegiance,” even though the war was still in progress. One immediate result was that those who took an oath of loyalty were issued a full pardon. Two days before issuing this amnesty, General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General U. S. Grant at Appomattox Court House, effectively ending the Civil War. Three days later after signing the amnesty, Lincoln would be shot by John Wilkes Booth at Ford’s Theatre, and die on April 15. In fine condition, with a couple of small ink spots and a light brush to end of Lincoln’s signature. Originally offered by Christies in 1997, this is certainly one of the last amnesties issued by Lincoln, shortly before that fateful night at Ford’s Theatre, which would have a lasting impact upon the United States. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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