Partly-printed DS, one page, 9.5 x 13.75, December 1, 1866. Commission from the U.S. Navy Department, which states, under the "direction of the President of the United States," that David N. Bell be promoted "to the grade of Ensign." Signed at the conclusion by Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles. Lower left bears the embossed Navy Department seal. In very good to fine condition, with intersecting folds and trimmed edges. Accompanied by an engraved portrait bearing a facsimile signature, and by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
