Civil War-dated ANS signed “A. Lincoln,” one page, 2.75 x 2.25, January 7, 1865. Handwritten note President Lincoln to Surgeon General Joseph Barnes, in full, “Surgeon General please examine this man with reference to his physical ability.” In fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as "NM-MT 8."
A fascinating note from Lincoln dating to the closing months of the American Civil War. The recipient, Joseph Barnes, was one of a handful of physicians present at the deathbed of President Lincoln. Barnes also treated Secretary of State William H. Seward, who survived an assassination attempt made by John Wilkes Booth associate and fellow Confederate conspirator Lewis Powell. Barnes also oversaw the autopsy of Abraham Lincoln the morning after on April 15, 1865.