Stately vintage 4.25 x 6.5 cabinet photo, signed in ink, “J. A. Garfield.” The lower right of the image area carries the circular blindstamp, “Harroun & Bierstadt, Artotype, N.Y.,” which indicates that the original negative for this intense portrait was taken expressly for Bierstadt by photographer H. W. Tibbals. A faint crease passes through the “J” in Garfield’s first initial, and there is scattered light soiling and mild edge wear; otherwise fine condition.
Less than a month after Garfield’s death on September 19, 1881, Bierstadt registered its copyright in this very image, presumably to capitalize on the market for memorial souvenirs. The image in this photograph is used in the Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s official presidential portrait of Garfield, the die for which was engraved by Lorenzo Hatch in 1881. It was also used on the 6¢ stamp issued in 1903. An outstanding example from a president whose tenure bears the distinction of being the second shortest of any commander-in-chief, seldom seen in signed photos! Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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