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U.S. Presidents - J through W |
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| Lot 186 |
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Jackson, Andrew (1767-1845) 7th President of the United States. Partly-printed Document Signed as President, Washington, April 6, 1829, on vellum, oblong folio. A land grant to Thomas Black of Sangamo County, Illinois, for 80 acres in Springfield, Illinois. Countersigned by Land Commissioner George Graham. Overall toning; some tape residue at edges. Good, bold signature, measuring over 5½ inches. Very Good (Photo).
Estimate $1,000-1,500. |
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| Lot 187 |
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Jackson, Andrew. 7th President of the United States, 1829-1837.
Partially Printed Document Signed as President. One page, oblong Folio, Washington, March 5, 1832. A military appointment for "... Charles R. Bell, Lieutenant Colonel... of the Militia of the District of Columbia..."
Complete with red stamped attached seal and countersigned by the Secretary of War. A bold nearly 6" signature. Some stains on the right and left borders with separations at the folds. Framed with a bronze medallion and a color print of Jackson; overall size 30 x 18" (Photo).
Estimate $800-1,200. |
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| Lot 188 |
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Johnson, Andrew (1808-75) 17th President of the United States. A rare three-page, handpainted, manuscript Document Signed as President, Washington, December 7, 1865, during his first year of assuming office after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. A letter of state to the president of Chile, introducing the famous Civil War general Judson Kilpatrick as the United States envoy extraordinaire, countersigned by Secretary of State William Seward. General Kilpatrick, whose nickname was "Kill-Cavalry," played an important role in every major cavalry action from Gettysburg to his (unsuccessful) raid on Richmond. He directed a cavalry division in the Atlanta campaign until wounded, then returned to lead the only cavalry division to accompany Sherman on the March to the Sea and into the Carolinas. A couple of archival edge reinforcements and some faint ghosting of ink. A beautiful and very rare illuminated presidential manuscript, handpainted in gold leaf, red and blue, with an excellent, large signature of Andrew Johnson. A remarkable and rare showpiece (Photo).
Estimate $2,500-3,000. |
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| Lot 189 |
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Johnson, Lyndon B. A scarce copy of the Limited Edition Official 1964 Democratic National Convention Book Inscribed and Signed, "To Mary Stack - with best wishes, Lyndon B. Johnson" on the front endpaper, 13¼ x 10½ inches. These hard-cover, cloth books were issued to house the programs of distinguished party members and close friends of the President. Stack was a close friend and party fundraiser. Minor age wear and toning. A very nice example (Photo).
Estimate $500-750. |
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| Lot 190 |
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Johnson, Lyndon B. 36th President of the United States, 1963-1969.
Three memos to President Johnson from staff members, each with Johnson's Signed Holograph comments in pencil. As follows:
A. One page, Quarto, Washington D.C., September 30, 1964. To President Johnson from Dick Goodwin with backup from George Stevens to Dick Goodwin, regarding public relations issues in Johnson's re-election campaign and the role television plays in it. LBJ writes in the border in full, "D - I commend you. I also like [the idea of an] election eve broadcast - Put it together at once - L." Fine condition.
B. Two pages, Quarto, Washington D.C., April 26, 1965. To President Johnson from Carl T. Rowan, Director of the United States Information Agency regarding the public stance Johnson should take in his upcoming press conference about the United States/Viet Nam question. At the top of the page, LBJ has scribbled, "Get to Bill M -" [Moyers]. Also at the bottom of the first page, in an unknown hand is the pencil notation, "This...kind of speculation is unproductive and harmful." Fine condition.
C. One page, Octavo, Washington D.C., June 9, 1965. Dick Goodwin sends the following message to the President, "Mr. President: Now that my prophecy is about to be realized, I thought you would like to see this memo which I sent to you many months ago." Johnson's reply in full: Dick - What is your point? I don't get it - L."
Accompanying the Goodwin June 9 memo is a photocopied memo from Goodwin to LBJ: Four pages, Quarto, Washington D.C., regarding the United States' policy toward DeGaulle and France. On the cover note, Goodwin states, in full, "Mr. President: I sent you this memorandum last summer. I believe everything in it is still true, and just as urgent. In fact the passage of time has made it more urgent. Dick Goodwin, April 29, 1965". President Johnson's note in reply, "I agree - send this to Tom Manee [?] and let's get busy. - L." Fine condition. In addition to President Johnson's holograph comments, there are a number of secretarial notations in the margins.
Two of the items are matted and framed with an engraved bronze plaque and a small color print of LBJ, to an overall size of 16½ x 26" A fascinating glimpse inside the Oval Office (Photo).
Estimate $1,000-1,500. |
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| Lot 191 |
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Johnson, Lyndon B. and Hoover, Herbert. A block of 24 5¢ stamps issued in 1964 commemorating John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Signed in the margin, "Lyndon B. Johnson" as President. With a block of 12 2¢ International Civil Aeronautics Conference stamps, issued in 1928 and Signed twice, "Herbert Hoover" across the stamps. Both in Fine condition (Photo).
Estimate $250-350. |
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| Lot 192 |
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Kennedy, John F. Black and white Photograph Inscribed and Signed ("To Mary Abbe & Otis Sturgeon, with best wishes, John F. Kennedy"), n.p., n.d. A chest-up 10 x 8 in. portrait as President by Bachrach. Several creases at lower left, on the right side of JFK's suit and down the right edge of the photo are not readily apparent at viewing distance, nor is one vertical crease from his right temple downward; one tiny white speck on his right cheek, from defect in emulson, is visible. Signed in black ink in the upper left corner and on Kennedy's hair. Signed photos of JFK are always desirable. Very Good. Otis Sturgeon was a government official during the Kennedy administration; he is buried in Arlington National Cemetery (Photo).
Estimate $3,000-4,000. |
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| Lot 193 |
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(Kennedy, John F.). A note from Evelyn Lincoln, JFK's personal secretary, accompanied by two funeral items: a 9½ x 5¾ in. "In Memoriam" card, and a 4¾ x 3½ in. bust shot of the late President, with a three-paragraph quotation from his inaugural speech on the verso. Light toning, otherwise Fine (3 items) (Photo).
Estimate $300-400. |
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| Lot 194 |
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Lincoln, Abraham (1809-65) 16th President of the United States. Partly-printed Document Signed as President, Washington, April 18, 1863. One page, oblong folio. Appointing Edward Dodd "Marshall of the United States for the Northern District of New York." Countersigned by Secretary of State William H. Seward. Light toning; some show-through from docketing on verso, and seal has lightly ghosted over the signature. Lincoln signed with his full name, a rarer form than "A. Lincoln." Matted with a black and white image of Lincoln and framed to an overall size of 18½ x 32 in. Fine (Photo).
Estimate $6,000-8,000. |
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| Lot 195 |
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Lincoln, Abraham. Partly-printed Document Signed as President, August 7, 1861, Washington, large oblong folio. Appointing "George W. Peck of New York...Consul... at San Juan, Porto Rico...." Countersigned by Secretary of State William H. Seward. Trimmed at lower edge; one tape repair on verso, with tiny amount of paper loss in text; a few easily- repaired fold and edge splits, one passing vertically through the "r" in "Seward"; and overall toning. Lincoln's signature is nice and bold, being an excellent example. Overall Very Good (Photo).
Estimate $4,000-5,000. |
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| Lot 196 |
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Lincoln, Abraham (1809-65) 16th President of the United States. Autograph Endorsement Signed ("Lincoln"), n.p., n.d., on a 2 x 8 in. piece of paper. Lincoln writes in full: "I wish Mr. Harris would go and stay at our house tonight. Lincoln." A few figures are written on the verso. Rough lower and left margins, where the endorsement was cut from the original document; small stained areas do not affect endorsement. A fold runs lightly between the "g" and "o" in "go" and there are a couple of pinholes in blank paper. Very Good (Photo).
Estimate $3,000-4,000. |
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| Lot 197 |
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Lincoln, Abraham. Mourning carte de visite paying tribute to Lincoln. Entitled "Columbia's Indignation," with 1865 copyright entered by H.W. Horton of Boston. Below the title is "Make A Chain, For The Land Is Full Of Bloody Crimes." A portrait of Lincoln sits on a mourning-draped table, above which perches an eagle on a patriotic shield. A sad Lady Liberty stands beside the portrait in front of a star-studded drape (Photo).
Estimate $300-500. |
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| Lot 198 |
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Madison, James. 4th President of the United States, 1809-1817.
Autograph Letter Signed. One page, small quarto, from Montepellier, VA, March 24, 1829. To Joseph C. Cabell, Virginia State Senator, in reply to Cabell's request. In full:
"Dear Sir,
Since mine of the 19th inst. I have received yours of the 16th and hasten to comply with its request relating to your letter of the Spring of 1827 and those from Warminster of the last year. I send the originals instead of copies which could not be readily made. As they are necessary to explain some of mine to you, may I ask the favor of you to let me have them again, after serving your own purposes. I hope your health continues to improve and that you will always be assured of my cordial esteem and regard. James Madison."
The letters Madison mentions were apparently part of an extensive correspondence between the two concerning tariffs and nullification. From 1827 to 1833, during the national controversy over these issues, Madison argued that a tariff to encourage manufacturers was constitutional, and that he opposed nullification. Cabell drafted a pamphlet in 1829 about the tariff issue, and he evidently needed copies of the letters for that endeavor. Archival mounted and framed with a color portrait and engraved plaque to an overall size of 18 x 13" (Photo).
Estimate $2,000-3,000. |
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| Lot 199 |
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McKinley, William. 25th President of the United States, 1897-1901.
Partially Printed Document Signed as President. One page, Oblong Folio, Washington DC, February 18, 1898. A Postmaster commission naming "William H. Tyrrell...Postmaster at Waverly in the County of Bremer, State of Iowa..." Gold pony express seal with red ribbons (torn) of the Post Office Department at lower left balances McKinley's signature at lower right. Also signed by James Albert Gary as Postmaster General.
One could assume, while McKinley was signing this document, his mind was on more pressing matters - the start of the Spanish-American War. Just three days prior to the signing of this document, the battleship Maine mysteriously exploded while anchored in Cuba, resulting in the deaths of 260 crew members.
Overall age toning. Matted together with a large bust engraving of McKinley with inscription plaque; framed to an overall size of 27 x 41" (Photo).
Estimate $300-500. |
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| Lot 200 |
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Monroe, James (1758-1831) 5th President of the United States. Printed Document Signed as Secretary of State, Washington, August 28, 1812. One page, 7 x 6¾ in., matted and framed to an overall size of 11½ x 16 in. "Additional Instruction to the public and private armed vessels of the United States. The public and private armed vessels of the United States are not to interrupt any vessels belonging to citizens of the United States coming from British ports to the United States laden with British merchandize, in consequence of the alledged repeal of the British Orders in Council, but are on the contrary to give aid and assistance to the same; in order that such vessels and their cargoes may be dealt with on their arrival as may be decided by the competent authorities. By command of the President of the United States of America." Very Fine (Photo).
Estimate $1,200-1,500. |
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| Lot 201 |
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Nixon, Richard M. Typed Letter Signed ("Dick Nixon") as Vice President, Washington, April 14, 1953. One page quarto, on "Office of the Vice President" letterhead, to George Perovich of San Francisco. In part: "From the day we returned to Washington on November 5 I have been wanting to write to you...to express my personal appreciation for all that you did to make possible our overwhelming victory. As we campaigned in other states we were often asked, 'How will California go?' While I was confident that my own state would come through again as it did in our campaign in 1950, the majority of almost 700,000 votes exceeded even our most optimistic expectations....I am sure you will agree with me that the President has shown in his first few weeks in office that he can and will give the country the leadership it needs during this critical period. But in order to put through his program he must have a majority in the House and Senate which will constantly support him....we should do everything we can toward planning for an effective campaign in the Congressional elections of 1954...." Excellent content. Very Fine condition. With envelope (Photo).
Estimate $500-600. |
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| Lot 202 |
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Nixon, Richard M (1913-94) 37th President of the United States. First Edition of Nixon's book Six Crises Signed and Inscribed ("To Alice Miles from Dick Nixon") on the first endpaper. Doubleday & Company, Inc., Garden City, New York, 460 pp. Gray buckram covers with gilt lettering against a blue background and original dust cover. Lightly toned; otherwise Fine (Photo).
Estimate $250-300. |
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| Lot 203 |
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Nixon, Richard M. 37th President of the United States, 1969-1974.
Typed Letter Signed (Initialed) As President. Nixon writes on the War Powers Bill. One page, small quarto, on pale green White House letterhead. Washington D.C., November 9, 1973. President Nixon penned his "RN" on this thank you letter to the Honorable Bob Wilson of the House of Reprensetatives. In full:
"Dear Bob: Despite the negative outcome of the House vote on November 7, to sustain my veto of the War Powers bill, your strong support on this important issue is greatly appreciated. I feel certain the test of time will prove your position a wise one, and I fervently hope the dangerous ramifications of this measure can be avoided. With warm regards. Sincerely, RN."
Matted in marbled borders and accompanied by a color print of Nixon and his official silver inaugural medal; all in a black lacquer with gold trim frame to an overall size of 12½ x 18½" (Photo).
Estimate $600-800. |
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| Lot 204 |
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Pierce, Franklin. 14th President of the United States, 1853-1857.
Autograph Franked Envelope Signed. Complete postmarked address-leaf, franked in large script at upper right. Attractively matted and framed with an inscription plaque and a color print of the President. Overall size 18 x 12½". Fine (Photo).
Estimate $300-400. |
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| Lot 205 |
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President James Monroe Presents His "Monroe Doctrine" To Congress. December 6, 1823, New-York American. Taking up over 4½ columns on Page 2 is the entire text of the Monroe Doctrine as set forth by President James Monroe in a message he delivered to the Congress of the United States on Decemer 2, 1823. It warned the powers of the Old World that the American continents were no longer open "for the purpose of oppressing them, or controlling in any other manner their destiny" and were "henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers." The policy succeeded because it met British interests as well as American and was backed up by the British fleet. The Monroe Doctrine was an important cornerstone in American foreign policy. Minor staining in margin, else Fine (Photo).
Estimate $300-500. |
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| Lot 206 |
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"President Lincoln and Family." Engraving by A.B. Walter from a painting by F. Schell, published by John Dainty, Philadelphia, 1865, 14 x 11 in. A portrait of Lincoln and his wife, surrounded by Robert and Tad, with a portrait of Willie, who had died in February 1862, hanging on the wall. Dampstain in the lower third of the print affects title and runs across lower portion of Mary's skirt, over to the right margin. Very Good (Photo).
Estimate $250-300. |
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| Lot 207 |
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Reagan, Ronald. 40th President of the United States, 1981-1989.
Two Typed Letters Signed, one written before and being a secretarial signature, and one as President. The first on his personal stationery and the other on White House stationery. Both to Irving Lazar, the well-known Hollywood agent. Both letters:
A. One page, quarto, on his "Ronald Reagan" imprinted letterhead, October 24, 1979. In full: "Dear Irving and Mary: On November 13, 1979 in the Grand Ballroom of the New York Hilton Hotel, 53rd Street at Avenue of the Americas, I will announce my candidacy for the office of President of the United States. Nancy and I would feel honored if you could find the time to join us on this very special evening. Cocktails will be served from 5:45 p.m. with my announcement and the dinner immediately following. I look forward to seeing you in New York as well as along the 1980 campaign trail. Sincerely, Ronald Reagan." (Secretarial Signature)
B. One page, quarto, on White House letterhead, April 28, 1987. In full: "Dear Swifty: Nancy and I are sorry that our good wishes and many happy returns of the day for your 80th birthday are so belated. However, we hope it was a special day filled with warmth and good cheer. May this year bring you nothing but the best. Happy Birthday and our warmest regards. Sincerely, Ronald Reagan."
Quite historical, as the first letter was Reagan's formal announcement of his candidacy for President. Both letters, a small color photo of the smiling President, a bronze medallion and a bronze engraved plaque are matted and framed against a crushed red velvet background; all within an elegant dark burl red with gold trim frame. Overall size, 29½ x 22" (Photo).
Estimate $700-1,000. |
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| Lot 208 |
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(Republican Archive). Archive of letters, photographs, and other material that belonged to Patrick J. Hillings (1923-94), the Republican Congressman from California who won the 25th District seat vacated by Nixon in 1950 and who served four terms in the U. S. House of Representatives. He was a confidant and advisor of Richard Nixon, who was his mentor and to whom his autobiography, The Irrepressible Irishman is dedicated. Hillings was a key aide during Nixon's vice presidential campaign in 1952. He was the first member of Congress to visit the Soviet Union after the onset of the Iron Curtain. He returned to California in 1958 to practice immigration law, but remained active in Republican politics. In 1979 he served as Florida director of Ronald Reagan's presidential campaign.
These are Hilling's treasured mementoes from his years in politics. In the collection of over 500 photographs, the pièce de résistance is a color 10 x 8 in. photograph of Presidents Reagan, Ford, Carter, and Nixon, taken at the White House October 8, 1981 and signed by all four (with Hillings' certification on the verso that it is original). Other signed and inscribed Presidential photos include Truman, Johnson, Nixon, Bush, Ford, and Reagan. The two large photos signed by Ford show him in a pensive mood, smoking a pipe. The color head-and-shoulders shot of Reagan in a cowboy hat is wonderful; unfortunately, the inscription and signature are faded from the sun. Two outstanding unsigned color photos were taken July 19, 1990 at the dedication of the Nixon Library; one shows Presidents Nixon, Ford, Bush and Reagan with their wives; the other is of the four Presidents alone. There are numerous other unsigned photos showing Hillings with Presidents Eisenhower, Nixon, Ford, and Reagan. Fifty other photographs are signed and inscribed to Hillings by fellow Congressmen, government officials, and two Vice Presidents--Spiro Agnew and Dan Quayle. An entire notebook is filled with photographs of the Congressional Chowder and Marching Club. Hillings was a member of this informal group of Republican Congressmen that began meeting in March 1949. Presidents Nixon and Ford, who were also members, can be seen in numerous photos, sporting their tall white chief's hats; everyone seems to be having a wonderful time, and President Reagan is shown with them in one of the photos. Among other photographs of note are some 25 color snapshots taken at Pat Nixon's funeral in 1993. Among the attendees are the Reagans, the Fords, Henry Kissinger, and other famous faces, but what stands out is the crumpled devastation of President Nixon's face; it feels like an invasion of privacy to even look at such grief.
Among the collection are letters to Hillings from Presidents, Congressmen, Governors, and others. Letters from Nixon include six Typed Letters Signed, with holograph salutations: three from 1977, one from 1985, one each from 1988 and 1994 ." Jerry Ford sent an ALS on Presidential letterhead, March 4, n.y., thanking Pat for his book; a TLS as President in 1976 asks for election help, and a TLS with nice content on Hilling's retirement. There are two letters from Reagan: a TLS as President in 1988 on Hillings' 65th birthday ("65 is nothing...Try 77..."), and a letter of condolence to Hillings' widow in 1994. From George Bush: A TLS as Vice President, in 1988 and a TLS in 1994 with condolences to Hillings' widow. Other letters are from Pete Wilson, George Deukmejan, and Edmund Brown, all Governors of California, as well as Jack Kemp, Peter Rodino, Dan Quayle, and many others.
Also present is Hillings' "Member of Congress" plaque, 15 inches in diameter, that hung in his office, as well as brochures, certificates, and other personal items. This archive should be seen in person to be appreciated (Photo).
Estimate $8,000-10,000. |
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| Lot 209 |
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Roosevelt, Franklin D. Limited Edition Color Print of the White House on heavy cream-colored paper, Signed below the image. From the 1936 Democratic Convention. Printed along lower edge: "This is one of a limited edition autographed by Franklin Delano Roosevelt. This is Number 1072." A beautiful, subtly-colored print, 4¼ x 6½ in. on a quarto sheet. Extremely Fine (Photo).
Estimate $900-1,100. |
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| Lot 210 |
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Roosevelt, Franklin D (1882-1945) 32nd President of the United States. Typed Letter Signed as Governor of New York, on official letterhead, Albany, July 29, 1932, 1 page, quarto. To Leighton Shields of St. Louis, thanking him for a letter and a snapshot and adding, "My autographed photograph is being forwarded to you under separate cover, and with it go my best wishes." FDR seems to have known Mr. Shields, because he marked through "Mr." in the salutation, leaving "Dear Shields," a form of address he would normally use with a friend or acquaintance. Light wear, otherwise Fine (Photo).
Estimate $600-800. |
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| Lot 211 |
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Roosevelt, Franklin D. Bold signature on the bottom portion of light green, White House Executive Mansion letterhead, 1 x 4½ inches, together with a rare, vintage, original family photograph by Martin Bros. of New York. A beautiful photograph that would frame nicely with the signature (2 items) (Photo).
Estimate $300-500. |
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| Lot 212 |
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Roosevelt, Franklin D. 32nd President of the United States, 1933-1945.
Typed Letter Signed as President. One page, quarto on White House letterhead, Dec. 15, 1942, to the widow of his first Secretary of War, George H. Dern, sympathizing with her on the death of her daughter:
"I have learned with sincere regret of the sorrow which has come to you with such crushing force in the loss of Elizabeth. Please accept for yourself and for all of the family this assurance of heartfelt sympathy in which Mrs. Roosevelt joins."
Dern himself had died in 1936 (Photo).
Estimate $400-500. |
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| Lot 213 |
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Roosevelt, Franklin D. 32nd President of the United States, 1933-1945.
Typed Letter Signed. One page, Quarto, as Vice President of Fidelity and Deposit Company of Maryland, December 15, 1928. To Mr. Edward B. Tracy, of Waterbury, Conn. The letter leaves little doubt where Roosevelt's collecting interests lay. Matted and framed with an inscription plaque and a photo. Overall size 19 x 15".
In full:
"Dear Mr. Tracy: I am very glad to send you my autograph at the bottom of this letter. I am, also, a collector, but I go in for stamps and Naval documents. Sincerely yours, Franklin D. Roosevelt.".
(Photo).
Estimate $300-500. |
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| Lot 214 |
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Roosevelt, Theodore (1858-1919) 26th President of the United States. Typed Letter Signed on "Metropolitan / Office of Theodore Roosevelt" letterhead, New York, June 7, 1917. One page, quarto. To V.H. Metcalf of Oakland, California. In part, "...of course you know I am not to be allowed to take troops abroad..." With holograph "to you and yours" added to the typed "With heartiest good wishes." Normal folds, else Fine. Attractively matted and framed to an overall size of 16½ x 20 inches (Photo).
Estimate $550-650. |
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| Lot 215 |
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Roosevelt, Theodore (1858-1919) 26th President of the United States. White House Card Signed as President, Washington, no date (c. 1901-09). Lightly toned with extremely bold signature. Matted with an 11 x 8½ inch engraving of Roosevelt to an overall size of 17½ x 11½ inches (Photo).
Estimate $500-600. |
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| Lot 216 |
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Taft, William H. Typed Letter Signed ("Wm H Taft") as President, on White House letterhead, Washington, January 20, 1911. One page quarto. To John B. Jackson, the American Minister in Havana, Cuba, introducing Mr. and Mrs. John C. Hill of St. Paul, Minnesota. In part, "Mr. Hill is a lumber merchant and a friend of mine, and was my host during one of my visits to St. Paul. Any assistance you can render him during his stay I shall very highly appreciate." Stamp of receipt by the U.S. Legation in Havana is at upper right. Fine condition. Matted with an 11 x 8½ inch engraving of Taft to an overall size of 14 x 19½ inches (Photo).
Estimate $500-600. |
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| Lot 217 |
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Taft, William Howard. 27th President of the United States, 1909-1913.
Partly Printed Document Signed As President. One page, Large Folio, Washington DC, May 12, 1910.
Engraved military appointment placing John C. Gilmore "Brigadier-General on the retired list of the Army." Taft's signature at lower right is a bit light but easily legible. Countersigned by Dirkson as Secretary of War. Includes blue wafer seal at lower left.
Matted and framed along with an engraved plaque and a small color print of Taft; to an overall size of 30 x 22" (Photo).
Estimate $500-800. |
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| Lot 218 |
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Taylor, Zachary (1784-1850) 12th President of the United States. Document Signed ("Z. Taylor Col. Comdy.), twice, Fort Crawford, November 11, 1833, 1 page, small quarto. Being a "Requisition For Fuel" for Taylor and his servant for the month of November 1833. Taylor signs once to certify that the requisition is correct, and the second time to acknowledge receipt of 4 cords, 11 feet, and 8 inches of fuel from the quartermaster. The requisition has two folds, neither affecting Taylor's very bold signatures. Very Fine. Taylor was appointed commandant of Fort Crawford (in present-day Wisconsin) in 1829. Taylor won distinction in the War of 1812, fought in the Black Hawk War of 1832, gained his nickname "Old Rough and Ready" while fighting the Seminole Indians in Florida Territory from 1837 to 1840, and gained hero status during the War with Mexico. His victory over Santa Anna at the Battle of Buena Vista in 1847 was the most important factor in elevating him to the presidency (Photo).
Estimate $1,500-2,000. |
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| Lot 219 |
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Three Presidents and A Supreme Court Justice. "U.S. Grant" Signature on a 2¼ x 3¼ in. card. Signed in purple ink. "R.B. Hayes / Fremont O. 20 Sept. 1881" on a 2-1/8 x 3-3/8 in. piece of paper with Hayes' name printed on verso. White House card signed "Calvin Coolidge." All three have substantial soiling; Hayes and Coolidge have mounting remnants at edges, and Hayes lacks tip of lower left corner, affecting the "F" and "r" in "Fremont." Also included is an inscription and signature from U. S. Attorney General Thomas C. Clark ("Best wishes from Tom C. Clark, Attorney General") on the verso of a 3½ x 5½ in. Democratic Committee dinner ticket; light soiling. Clark supported President Truman in desegregating the armed forces, and served on the U.S. Supreme Court from 1949-67. Conditions range from Fair to Good (4 items) (Photo).
Estimate $400-600. |
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| Lot 220 |
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Truman, Harry S. Printed Tribute honoring Truman as "Citizen, soldier and patriot--Senator, Vice-President and President...."from Labor's League For Political Education Signed, "Thanks, Harry S Truman," as President (Chicago, October 29, 1952), together with a graphic showing voters stepping up to the ballot box Inscribed and Signed, "To: M. F. Darling From: Harry S Truman.," and the program from the organization's 1952 dinner honoring the keynote speaker, the President. Three pieces, two of them signed by Truman (Photo).
Estimate $400-600. |
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| Lot 221 |
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Truman, Harry S (1884-1972) 33rd President of the United States. Typed Letter Signed on personal letterhead, Kansas City, Missouri, November 2, 1953. 1 page, small quarto. To Mr. William Fox Steinberg, owner of Miami Rare Coin Company in Miami, regarding a coin Mr. Steinberg had sent to Truman while he was President. Truman writes, in part, "...the coin may have gone to the White House....You should have received a letter of acknowledgment while I was still in the White House informing you that the coin had arrived. I am sorry to say I have never seen it but we will be on the look out for it as we continue to unpack." Excellent condition and attractively matted and framed. Of special interest to numismatists (Photo).
Estimate $500-600. |
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| Lot 222 |
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Truman, Harry S (1884-1972) 33rd President of the United States. Typed Letter Signed as President, on White House letterhead, Washington, January 19, 1951. One page, small quarto. To Frank L. Weil, Chairman of The President's Committee on Religion and Welfare in the Armed Forces, thanking and complimenting the committee for the work they have done. The punch line is, "I regret that the Congress did not see fit to provide the funds which would have enabled your Committee to continue its constructive and important work." Extremely Fine. Matted with a color image of Truman and framed to an overall size of 13½ x 20 in (Photo).
Estimate $450-550. |
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| Lot 223 |
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HISTORY CHASES FORMER PRESIDENT TRUMAN. 33rd President of the United States,1945-1953.
Autograph Letter Signed, One page, Quarto, on imprinted personal letterhead, Kansas City, Missouri, December 10, 1955, to Dean Acheson (1893-1971), Truman's Secretary of State (served 1949-53), a transcript of whose letter of Dec. 8, 1955 is included, and framed opposite Truman's letter. This wry, personal missive topically concerns a recent bout of ex-presidential intestinal rumbling. Truman writes, in full:
"Dear Dean: Just as I'd put an air mail letter down the shoot in answer to yours, here comes this hand written letter telling me you are an expert on upset insides! Well you are an expert on many things including politics, foreign affairs and shoes and sealing wax and whether the sea is boiling hot and pigs have wings -- but I didn't know that you are familiar with the ramifications of 5000 feet of -- should I say guts or intestines? If I show your letter to the Boss [Mrs Truman] she'bottom left say of course, tell him to bring the baseball bat with the spikes in the business end. Maybe I won't tell her but of course I will. It's too good to keep. I'm looking forward to a most pleasant session with you -- bring Alice. Sincerely Harry." .
Very Fine. Truman's humorous, bantering letter, which reveals the warm confidentiality enjoyed between these two men, carefully skirts a more serious matter, which Acheson has broached on behalf of a bemused historian, a Dr. Noble of the Historical Division of the State Department, who is anxious to gain access to the Potsdam papers, the documents which instrumented the ending of World War II, and whom Truman has evidently been avioding. Acheson alludes to Truman's preoccupation with the Presidential Library, and the former President's recently published Memoirs (Part 1, "Year of Decisions), and goes on to urge Truman to allow history to run its course: "...A few days ago I had a call from a man suffering badly from frustration--Dr. Noble of the Historical Division of the State Department, a good man. You were the cause of the frustration. He showed me a letter from you last spring saying that you would take up his request to look at some of the Potsdam papers when the book was out of the way; then a recent one saying that you would get to it when the library was finished and the papers installed. Poor Dr. Noble!I think this is fair and right. Noble is trying to do a shcolarly [sic] job. He doubts whether the Potsdam volume will be out for years as the British do not propose to be treated again as they were on the Yalta papers--a trick of our friend Foster's [John Foster Dulles] which bounced back on him. Noble will give me a new list of documents before I come out and I hope you can find a few minutes to talk with me about it."
The two letters provide an odd glimpse the yapping dog of history chasing the former President, who is busy writing a version of these same events himself. The second volume of Truman's Memoirs (Part II,"Years of Trial & Hope", 1956) would be published the following year.
Exceptional content. Beautifully framed with the Acheson transcript and Truman's manuscript on either side of a handsome photograph portrait of the President, with a bronze Presidential Medallion centered below. Overall size is 20 x 33." (Photo).
Estimate $3,500-4,500. |
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| Lot 224 |
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Truman, Harry S. 33rd President of the United States,1945-1953.
Scarce Document Signed and Photograph Signed as President. Beautiful calligraphed document: One page, oblong folio, Washington DC, May 15, 1945.
Being Truman's official appointment of "...Charles G. Ross of Maryland...Secretary to the President of the United States of America..." Harry Truman and Charlie Ross were childhood friends, and as the two grew up, Ross always seemed to come out on top in various school, athletic and social ocasions, etc. When Truman became President,he appointed his long-time friend Ross to be his Secretary, and in Truman's inaugural speech, even made comment that he had finally come out ahead of Ross at something.
This beautifully caligraphed document bears Truman's impressive signature at lower right, and is co-signed by Joseph C. Green as Acting Secretary of State. At lower left a large white embossed seal of the United States has been affixed. Truman documents signed as president are uncommon in the market.
Accompanying this lovely document is a Photograph Signed: 6 " x 8" black and white 3/4 shot of both Truman and Ross standing on the deck of a ship, wearing casual clothes and chatting with each other, Washington DC, October 14, 1946. Taken just before President Truman was to go on the air to announce an immediate release of all livestock and meat price controls, as hostilities in World War II were on the decline (eventually ending officially on December 31, 1946). Truman has signed vertically over his image "Harry Truman," and Ross has signed at upper left corner, "Al Mingalone with warm regards Charles G. Ross." Photograph is also in Fine condition. Both items have been attractively matted, together with a 2" diameter Presidential medallion, and framed to an overall size of 26½ x 38½" (Photo).
Estimate $2,000-0. |
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| Lot 225 |
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President Tyler Ushers a Mint Report Before Congress. (1790-1862) 10th President of the United States, 1841-1845.
Letter Signed To Congress. One page, Octavo, with the superscript address "To the House of Representatives of the United States," Washington, DC, January 7, 1842. Transmittal letter to the 27th Congress of the United States, presenting a report from the Director of the Mint describing the operations of that institution for the year 1841. The letter, which was published as a preamble to "US Mint Document No.71," and read with the Mint report before the 27th Congress, Second Session, on February 8, 1842, reads:
"I transmit, herewith, to the House of Representatives, a report from the
Director of the Mint, showing the operations of that institution for the year
1941.
John Tyler
Washington, 31st. Jan. 1842. " .
Fine. President Tyler's signature is remarkably bold (Photo).
Estimate $800-1,000. |
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| Lot 226 |
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Tyler, John. Autograph Letter Signed as U.S. senator from Virginia, "Senate chamber Jany 18, 1832." One page oblong octavo, to Mr. Smith: "I recd. the enclosed notice a few minutes ago which was doubtlessly issued through mistake. The note referd [sic] to was dischargd early in December and the original paper executed by Mr. Lowry is in my possession. Be pleas'd to advise me of any errors which may exist in this matter." Boldly penned and signed. Very Fine (Photo).
Estimate $750-1,000. |
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| Lot 227 |
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Tyler, John (1790-1862) 8th President of the United States. Folded Letter Cover Free Franked ("J. Tyler") as ex-President and addressed in Tyler's hand to "Capt. John Lester." Return address with date in another hand, "Charles City Courthouse Va May the 7, 1847." Some toning and a few spots, but boldly penned and signed. Docket and penciled biographical notes do not show when cover is folded. Tyler was sometimes called "His Accidency" by his detractors because he was the first Vice President to succeed to the Presidency by the death of his predecessor (Photo).
Estimate $400-600. |
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| Lot 228 |
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Tyler, John. 10th President of the United States, 1841-1845.
Manuscript Document Signed as President. One page, quarto (N.P.), July 31, 1841. Concerns granting temporary franking privilege. In full:
During the absences of the Adjutant General of the Army, Major S. Thomas, Senior Assistant Adjutant General of the Army, on duty in the Adjutant General's Office is appointed to act in his stead, in conformity to the 5th Section of the Act of July 20th 1836, for the purpose of giving him temporary privilege of franking during said absence. / John Tyler"..
A fine letter, boldly written and signed. Matted and framed with an engraved plaque and a steel engraved portrait. Overall size is 16 x 20 1/5." (Photo).
Estimate $1,000-1,500. |
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| Lot 229 |
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The U.S. Response To Soviet Military Buildup In Cuba. First Edition of President Kennedy's "Report to the People, October 22, 1962," published by the Department of State, 12 pp. 7¾ x 5¼ in. The dramatic address in which President Kennedy announced a naval "quarantine" of Cuba to prevent the Soviets from unloading additional long-range ballistic missiles on the island, and in which the world learned for the first time how near to a nuclear confrontation the two superpowers had come as they eyeballed one another in the Caribbean. Less than a week later, Krushchev announced his decision to recall the Soviet ships already at sea and also to withdraw all Soviet ballistic weapons from Cuba, ending the crisis. "The path we have chosen....is full of hazards...but it is one consistent with our character and courage as a nation." Many of us remember where we were during the tense stand-off. Light wear to the original white wrappers, else Very Fine (Photo).
Estimate $200-300. |
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| Lot 230 |
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Van Buren, Martin. 8th President of the United States, 1837-1841.
Autograph Letter Signed as President. Four pages, Two-sided, Quarto. Washington City, Sept. 21, 1839. A lengthy ALS marked "Confidential" at the head. Written to Benjamin Franklin Butler, 1795-1858, former law partner of Van Buren. Butler served as Attorney General under Jackson (1833-1836) and as Secretary of War (1836-7). Also served as U.S. Attorney for the state of New York (southern district) under Presidents Van Buren (1838-41) and Polk (1845-48). It was while serving in his position as U.S. Attorney that he received this letter.
President Martin Van Buren offers a post as foreign emissary to William Leggett, an editor of the Saturday Evening Post and proponent of the Locofocos.
President Van Buren pens (in full):
"My Dear Sir
Mr. Bryant [William Cullen Bryant , 1794-1878, poet and editor of the New York Evening Post, 1829-78. One of the leading Democratic voices in the nation, he was also an ardent abolitionist and would become one of the founders of the Republican Party.] has in conjunction with some other friends of Mr. Leggett recommended that gentleman to me for the place of Surveyor of the Port of New York. It would certainly give me pleasure to [do] any proper thing in my power for Mr. L. not only on his account, but also to gratify Mr. B. & from a conviction that Mr. L. would discharge any duty imposed upon him with integrity & ability. The place ref'd to does not become vacant in its regular course for some time, & I have not as yet decided upon anticipating that event. Mr. E. Moore [Ely Moore, 1798-1860, Chairman of the National Trades' Union, and Rep. from New York to Congress (1934-39)]. Then served as surveyor of the port of New York before moving west to Kansas] has also been proposed upon me for it long before Mr. L.'s name was brought forward. The movement in regards to Mr. M. proceeded, so far as my knowledge extends, from our friends & integrity of his political course have taken a clear interest in his receiving some appointment. So that matter stands. A temporary employment has presented itself, which would, it strikes me, be very acceptable to Mr. Leggett as a provision for the time being and which it would in most event[s] afford me sincere pleasure to bestow upon him. I have decided to break up our Legation in Central America as unnecessary & to inform Mr. DeWitt when he was here. Instructions were on their way to him when his last catastrophe occurred, directing him to repair to his post-obtain his ratification & exchange of a treaty which has been concluded with that government-explain my reasons for closing the Legation & place the archives in proper hands... it will now become necessary to do this by a special & confidential agent sent for the sole purpose. The trust is of a responsible and honorable character, and a visit to that part of the world [would] not be destitute of interest. It would probably occupy the agent half a year, & the pay will be $8 a day and all reasonable expenses paid by the government. I will thank you to consult with Mr. Bryant & if he thinks it will probably be agreeable to Mr. Leggett to undertake it you may propose it to him. Make my respects to both & believe me to be / very truly yours // M.Van Buren".
Very Fine. William Leggett was a supporter of free trade, direct taxation, and firmly believed in the right of the working-man to organize. He, together with William Cullen Bryant, expounded their views on these subjects to a large national audience through the Saturday Evening Post. They were also fierce advocates of abolition. During the winter of 1835-6, Leggett became ill and had to curtail much of his journalistic output. As a result of his condition, Bryant prevailed upon Van Buren to secure a position for Leggett in the interest of his declining health. The diplomatic post being made available to him here by Van Buren was special envoy to Guatemala--Leggett, however, would not live to see the tropical climes of his new appointment. He died May 20, 1839, exactly one month and one day from the date of this letter.
Matted and dramed with plaque and inscription to an overall size of 22½ x 19" (Photo).
Estimate $2,500-3,000. |
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| Lot 231 |
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Washington, George (1732-99) First President of the United States. Signature cut from a document, n.p., n.d., on a 1-1/8 x 3 in. piece of laid paper. Above the signature are the words "Executors admini," the second word having been cut in the middle; below the signature is the word "and." Tiny tears at lower edge do not affect the bold signature. Washington's signature is always desirable (Photo).
Estimate $3,000-4,000. |
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| Lot 232 |
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Wilson, Woodrow (1856-1924) 28th President of the United States. Typed Letter Signed on White House letterhead, Washington, May 8, 1918. One page, small quarto. To Captain Alfred H. Granger of the War Industries Board. In part, "I have...no reason to doubt that your estimate of Mr. Mallery is justified, but you have been misinformed about my intending to appoint a Director of Labor....I have become convinced that it is not at present necessary and would not at present be wise." Light toning, a few small specks, and a faint paper clip mark at top left; also, folds, slight bleeding of type, and mounting remnants on verso of blank integral leaf, which is glued at corners to letter. Very Good (Photo).
Estimate $600-800. |
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