Skip to content
nate d sanders auctions logo
  • AuctionExpand
    • Current Auction
    • Instructions
  • Register
  • ConsignExpand
    • Consign With Us
    • Noteable Estates & Testimonials
  • Prices Realized
  • Blog
  • In The News
  • My Account
  • Contact
Facebook X YouTube Linkedin
nate d sanders auctions logo
Home » Uncategorized
Uncategorized

Sell or Auction Your All the US Presidents Autograph Collection for up to Over $40,000 or More at Nate D. Sanders Auctions

ByNate D Sanders February 10, 2024February 10, 2024

Consign With Us

Do you have a high-value item that you would like to get the maximum price possible? If so, please call us at (310) 440-2982 or use the form below. A representative of Nate D. Sanders Auctions will contact you concerning your items.

Attach up to 4 pictures in gif, jpg or png format not to exceed 4Mb.

There are two methods to select your images after you clicking “Choose Files”:

While holding the Shift Key down, select the first image and the last image. All images between will be highlighted.

While holding the CTrl Key down, select each image one click at a time. Only the selected images will be chosen. Then click “Open” and the selected files will be included in the form.

You can also email us at [email protected]

Consign With Us

Do you have a high-value item that you would like to get the maximum price possible? If so, please call us at (310) 440-2982 or use the form below. A representative of Nate D. Sanders Auctions will contact you concerning your items.

Attach up to 4 pictures in gif, jpg or png format not to exceed 4Mb.

There are two methods to select your images after you clicking “Choose Files”:

While holding the Shift Key down, select the first image and the last image. All images between will be highlighted.

While holding the CTrl Key down, select each image one click at a time. Only the selected images will be chosen. Then click “Open” and the selected files will be included in the form.

You can also email us at [email protected]

FREE APPRAISAL. To buy, auction, sell or consign your All the US Presidents autograph collection that is for sale, please email your description and photos to [email protected] of Nate D. Sanders Auctions (http://www.NateDSanders.com).

Sell Your All the US Presidents Autograph Collection

Below is a recent realized price for an autograph collection of all the US Presidents. We at Nate D. Sanders Auctions can obtain up to this amount or more for you:

All the US Presidents Autograph Collection. Sold for Over $40,000.

Here are some autographs of U.S. presidents that we have sold:

Lot of 15 Presidential & Historical Signatures — Including 2 by Abraham Lincoln, 2 by U.S. Grant, 3 by James Madison, 2 by James K. Polk, 1 by Andrew Jackson & More

Large collection of clipped Presidential and historical signatures, including two by Abraham Lincoln. Lot includes: (1-2) Two Lincoln signatures, each signed ”Abraham Lincoln” measuring 6” x 1.25” and 4” x 1”. (3-5) Three signatures by James Madison, each signed ”James Madison”, measuring 5” x 2.5”, 5” x 2” and 4.75” x 1.25”. (6-7) Two signatures by James Monroe, each signed ”James Monroe”, measuring 5.75” x 3” and 5” x 1”. (8) Andrew Jackson signature signed ”Andrew Jackson”, measuring 6” x 1.375”. (9) Martin Van Buren signature signed ”M Van Buren”, measuring 5” x 2”. (10-11) Two signatures by Ulysses S. Grant, each signed ”U.S. Grant”, measuring 4” x 2.5” and 5” x 1.5”. (12-13) Two signatures by James Polk, each signed ”James K. Polk”, measuring 5.25” x 2” and 4.25” x 1.5”. (14) Signature by Vice President John Calhoun, signed here ”J.C. Calhoun” as Secretary of War under James Monroe. Measures 4.625” x 2”. (15) Signature by William L. Marcy, signed ”W.L. Marcy” as Secretary of War under James Polk, measuring 3.5” x 1.25”. All measurements are approximate, most with irregular edges. Most signatures are on vellum, likely taken from documents signed as President, and remain in very good to near fine condition. The taller U.S. Grant signature has a closed tear affecting the ”t” in Grant. An excellent Presidential collection. Sold for $9,375.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.

William Henry Harrison Document Signed as President

William Henry Harrison full four-language ship’s paper signed as President, undated though of course sometime between 4 March and 4 April 1841. Countersigned by Daniel Webster as Secretary of State. Having only served one month in office before dying of complications from a cold, documents signed by Harrison as President are exceptionally scarce. In fact, only 24 Harrison presidential documents (twelve in private hands and twelve in institutions), three presidential autograph letters signed, and two presidential manuscript letters signed are known to exist, with many of the examples simply being his clipped signature with “President” printed beneath. This document, an exceptionally well-preserved four-language ship’s paper is boldly signed “W.H. Harrison” to the mid-right section. It was customary at the time for Presidents and the cabinet to sign ship’s papers in advance of their use for the convenience of the local officials who gave them to American merchant vessels bound overseas. This document is no exception, as portions were left blank. Printed in French, Spanish, English and Dutch, the English portion reads in part: “William Henry Harrison, President of the United States of America, To all who shall see these presents…By the President / Most Serene, Serene, Most Puissant, Puissant, High, Illustrious, Noble, Honorable, Venerable, Wise, and Prudent Lords, Emperors, Kings, Republics, Princes, Dukes, Earls, Barons, Lords, Burgomasters, Schepens, Counsellors, as also Judges, Officers, Justiciaries, and Regents of all the good cities and places, whether Ecclesiastical or Secular, who shall see these patents or hear them read: We [blank] make known, that the master of [blank] appearing before us, has declared, upon oath, that the vessel called [blank] of the burden of about [blank] tons, which he at present navigates, is of the United States of America, and that no subjects of the present belligerent Powers have any part or portion therein, directly or indirectly, so my God Almighty help him [blank] And, as we wish to see the said master prosper in his lawful affairs, or our prayer is, to all the beforementioned, and to each of them separately, where the said master shall arrive with his vessel and cargo, that they may please to receive the said master with goodness, and to treat him in a becoming manner, permitting him, on paying the usual tolls and expenses in passing and repassing, to pass, navigate, and frequent the ports, passes, and territories, to the end to transact his business, where and in what manner he shall judge proper.” Harrison signs his name, “W.H. Harrison” boldly and clearly on the fourth panel, the Dutch portion of the document. Webster signs his name “Daniel Webster”, also boldly and clearly, beside the printed “Secretary of State.” portion. Document measures 21.5″ x 16.5″ with neat mends to horizontal fold. Minor browning in a few spots and creasing around the original blindstamped U.S. seal still intact. An exceptionally scarce document in very good condition. Sold for $75,043.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.

Thomas Jefferson Scarce Signed 1st Edition of the First U.S. Census — One of Only a Handful Signed & Ratified by Jefferson

Extremely rare Thomas Jefferson signed first edition of the first U.S. census, one of only a handful of Jefferson signed copies sold at auction in the last 40 years. As Secretary of State, Jefferson called for the first official census, and ratified the results of only a handful, this being one of them, signed boldly ”Th: Jefferson” on page 56. Published in Philadelphia: Childs and Swaine, 1791. Full title reads, ”Return of the Whole Number of Persons Within the Several Districts of the United States, According to ‘An Act Providing for the Enumeration of the Inhabitants of the Unites States’. Printed in a small number for distribution by Thomas Jefferson as Secretary of State, and from his direct descendant, Thomas Jefferson Coolidge Jr., with Mr. Coolidge’s crested label to front pastedown. Bound in 19th century half-morocco and marbled boards, book measures 5” x 7.25”. This copy appears to be one of the very first printings of the first edition, as it lacks the tipped-in late-returning results from South Carolina often found on page 54. The lower margins of pages 34, 42 and 43 have been shaved by binder, otherwise copy is near fine with a touch of toning and foxing. Volume also includes a press copy of an autograph letter signed by Jefferson, affixed to rear endpaper, dated 8 October 1797, measuring 6.5” x 7.75”. Letter concerns a quarterly dividend of ”a few dollars over 300”, payable to Col. James Monroe. A rare opportunity for the very first census of the United States, signed by its 3rd President, with other such copies selling for approx. $100,000. Sold for $66,435.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.

William Henry Harrison Partial Document Signed as President — The Scarcest Presidential Autograph While Serving as He Was President for Just 30 Days Before Dying

William Henry Harrison partial ship’s paper signed as President, printed in English and Dutch. Countersigned by Daniel Webster as Secretary of State and by William Littlefield as Customs Collector. Having only served one month in office before dying of complications from a cold, documents signed by Harrison as President are exceptionally scarce. In fact, only 24 Harrison presidential documents (twelve in private hands and twelve in institutions), three presidential autograph letters signed, and two presidential manuscript letters signed are known to exist. This ship’s paper is partially trimmed and measures 10.5″ x 11 from the port of Newport, Rhode Island, dated 28 August 1841 approximately five months after Harrison’s death; it was customary at the time for Presidents and the cabinet to sign documents such as this in advance of their use. Document was issued to Theodore Wimpenney, master of the ship Margaret, noting that she carried “375 and 16/95 tons, or thereabouts, lying at present in the port of Newport, RI, bound for Pacific Ocean and laden with provisions, Tackle & stores for a voyage in the whale fishery.” Document is bright and clean, with two tiny tears at left center edge. Exceptional. Sold for $59,742.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
William Henry Harrison Partial Document Signed as President. Click to enlarge.

Abraham Lincoln Signed CDV as President — John Hay Certifies Signature as Authentic on Verso

Exceptionally rare Abraham Lincoln signed carte-de-visite photograph, taken by Alexander Gardner in 1861 and signed as President. Signed ”A. Lincoln” below the seated portrait of Lincoln. John Hay, Lincoln’s private secretary, authenticates the signature upon the verso by writing, ”I certify that the President’s signature is genuine / John Hay”. With ”Brady’s National Portrait Gallery” backstamp. Measures 2.5” x 3.75”. Very good with some foxing and wear, but with a strong signature by Lincoln. With provenance from Profiles in History and with a COA from Charles Hamilton. Sold for $49,913.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.
Click image to enlarge.
Click image to enlarge.

Consign your All the US Presidents autograph collection at Nate D. Sanders Auctions. Email a description & photos of your All the US Presidents autograph collection to [email protected].

John Adams Reflects Upon the Real Causes of the American Revolution — “…what would be the consequences of an attempt on the part of Great Britain, to carry into…Authority over Us…War and Carnage, and devastation I saw – or thought I saw must be the consequence – and I fully believed that all the horrours of such a Contest would never wholly subdue the old non-conformist Spirit…” — Extraordinary and Moving Letter on the Indefatigable Spirit of the American Colonists

Exceptionally stirring and important letter signed by John Adams almost 50 years after the American Revolution, after which enough time had passed that Adams felt compelled to correct the record about the true causes of the American Revolution. Addressed to Jonathan Mason of Boston, letter is dated 31 August 1820 from “Montezillo”, Adams’ playful comparison to Jefferson’s larger estate at Monticello. In this letter, Adams posits that the fear and hatred of heirarchy, especially in matters of religion by The Church of England, were the wellspring of revolution, rather than simple economic or social issues. In part, “…The real principles, Motives, and feelings which gave rise to the Revolution have been very superficially and imperfectly investigated. For one example among many, The dread of the Hierarchy; and of the high principles in Religion and government; which then prevailed in the Church of England and which were more openly and dogmatically professed and asserted in America than in England itself – Are not sufficiently known, and have not been sufficiently considered. – Indeed it is almost impossible to convince at this day, any young Man; or even any middle aged Man of the extravagance to which those high doctrines were carried before the Revolution…And of the Authority of the Church in matters of Religion – yet these Doctrines, I heard asserted almost every day – The idea that such a Church, and such doctrines and such Hierarchy where [sic] to be established by Act of Parliament appeared to me worse than Death – As I know this to be the feeling and Principle of all the Dissenters in America – I did not believe they would submit to it…I therefore believe as early as I can remember, that this Country would never submit to the Unlimited Authority of Parliament – And this opinion forced me to consider what would be the consequences of an attempt on the part of Great Britain, to carry into execution a Soverign Legislative Authority over Us. – War and Carnage, and devastation I saw – or thought I saw must be the consequence – and I fully believed that all the horrours of such a Contest would never wholly subdue the old non-conformist Spirit…” Signed boldly and clearly “John Adams”. Two page letter with integral franked address leaf measures 8″ x 10″. Minor loss from seal tear on address leaf, else near fine. Housed in a light blue cloth folding case, with the blue morocco spine lettered gilt. Sold for $45,000.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.

Abraham Lincoln Letter Signed to His General After the Disastrous Battle of Fredericksburg on Taking Richmond: ”…the army must remain on or near the Fredericksburg line, to protect Washington…”

Important Civil War letter signed by President Abraham Lincoln, exactly one week after the disastrous Battle of Fredericksburg that left Lincoln in ”a worse place than hell” upon hearing the results of the ”butchery” of Union forces. The hope of taking the Confederacy’s capital of Richmond had been stymied yet again, and criticism of Lincoln’s handling of the war reached such a pitch that there was even serious consideration of removing him as Commander-in-Chief. In this letter, written to Major Generals William B. Franklin and William F. Smith, Lincoln responds to another possible plan of how to approach the city, presented by the Generals (see lot 135 for Franklin and Smith’s plan). General Franklin, in particular, was likely trying to fix the problem of capturing Richmond, as his command of the Left Grand Division during the Battle of Fredericksburg had been criticized in some quarters; Lincoln, however, views this new plan with skepticism and even issues a mild rebuke at the end of the letter, for what seems to be an inconsistency in Franklin’s recommended strategy.  Single page letter is written in the hand of Lincoln’s secretary John G. Nicolay, boldly signed by Lincoln at the conclusion. On bifolium stationery measuring 7.875” x 9.875”. Fold lines, else near fine condition. Sold for $40,000.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.

George Washington Autograph Document Signed — Washington Itemizes a 1774 Invoice for His Former Aide-de-Camp in Securing Bounty Land Under the 1754 Proclamation — With University Archives COA

Exceptional autograph document signed by George Washington from 1774 regarding bounty land promised to Virginia veterans of the French & Indian War, per the Proclamation of 1754. When distribution of the land stalled after the war, Washington famously took it upon himself to lobby on behalf of the veterans, even hiring a surveyor to divvy up the 20,000 acres himself. He was criticized, however, for reportedly setting aside the best land for himself and his friends, with this invoice revealing his efforts on behalf of his former aide-de-camp, George Mercer, and Mercer’s brother.

Dated 25 January 1774, Washington handwrites at top, ”Col. George Mercer on acct. of the Land under the Proclamation of 1754…” He details meetings beginning in 1770 in Fredericksburg, when Washington was appointed agent for securing the land, writing ”voted at Fredericksburg at this meeting, it being for your own & Brother’s shares…” Washington again writes about advocating for Mercer and his brother at a meeting in March 1771 in Winchester, and then bills for ”Surveying 13532 acres Patented in y’r own name” in November 1772. He also charges for ”y’r prop’n of the cost of Surveying a tract of 6788 ac’s – in w’ch you hold 2816 ac’s.”

Additional charges are listed, along with credits, for a total charge of over 40 pounds. Boldly signed ”Go: Washington” at conclusion. Interestingly, it’s unlikely that Washington ever collected on the bill, as Mercer, a strong loyalist, moved to England before the Revolutionary War. Document is in extraordinarily well-preserved condition, with bold handwriting throughout. Measures 7.625” x 7”. Mounting remnants to verso, otherwise near fine condition. With University Archives COA. Sold for $37,500.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.
University Archives COA. Click image to enlarge.

Incredible Secretary of State James Madison Autograph on a July 1803 Letter Regarding the April 1803 Offer from France for the Louisiana Purchase

James Madison autograph on a letter, as Secretary of State, dated 18 July 1803 and directed to Rhode Island Senator Christopher Ellery, requesting his presence at a special session of Congress to vote on the Louisiana Purchase. Exceptional letter reads in full, “(Circular.) Department of State, Washington, July 18, 1803. / Sir, The Proclamation by the President, of which a copy is inclosed, will inform you, that in pursuance of his authority to convene Congress on extraordinary occasions, he has appointed Monday the 17th day of October next for the meeting of the Senators and Representatives of the United States. This anticipation of the commencement of the ensuing session is rendered necessary by conventions with the French Republic, involving a cession of Louisiana to the United States; which may require the presence of both Houses, and of which conventions the ratifications are to be exchanged within six months computed from the 30th of April last. The shortness of the period therefore, to which the necessary proceedings will be limited, with the very great importance of the subject to the interest of the United States, claim from every member the most punctual attendance; and I am charged by the President to urge these considerations on your patriotism, and your sense of duty. Assurance myself that they will have all the effect which he justly expects from them. I remain, Sir, With the highest respect, Your most obedient Servant,” signed “James Madison”. In April 1803, James Madison received the unexpected offer from France to purchase the vast swath of territory from New Orleans to Minnesota and westward to part of present day Idaho. Working under a deadline from France of ratifying the purchase by October 30, Madison quickly agreed to purchase terms with France, forwarded the document to President Thomas Jefferson in late July, and then summoned Congress to a special session. Ellery and his fellow Senators voted on 20 October, just ten days before France’s deadline, and ratified the Louisiana Purchase Treaty by a vote of 24-7 (the controversial purchase was opposed by some as unconstitutional). Upon its completion, Napoleon Bonaparte remarked, “This accession of territory affirms forever the power of the United States, and I have given England a maritime rival who sooner or later will humble her pride.” Letter measures approximately 9.5″ x 12″. Single page with integral address panel is additionally free-franked signed by Madison. Seal hole and small chip at center fold, else near fine. While this letter theoretically exists for the approximate 200 U.S. Senators, Representatives and Governors in 1803, this is only the third such letter or occurrence of this letter to come to auction, making it exceptionally scarce. A significant document from the largest and most important territorial acquisition of the United States in her history.  Dark James Madison autograph.  Sold for $37,000.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.

Abraham Lincoln Autograph Letter

Abraham Lincoln signed autograph letter to Salmon P. Chase, the Secretary of the Treasury. Written the year Lincoln’s second term began, the letter refers to the “Reconstruction” plan Lincoln was in the process of executing. The plan called for protectionism, arguably a more immediate cause of the American Civil War than the abolition of slavery. In 1864, before the war ended, Abraham Lincoln raised trade taxes to the highest level they had ever reached to cripple the South, while the southern states were pro-free trade. On 8 December 1863, Lincoln announced his reconstruction program during his Annual Message to Congress. The only person who objected to this message was Sec. Chase. Here, Lincoln mentions looking over the trade rules again with Chase to hurt the Confederacy. Reads in full: “Executive Mansion, Washington, Jan. 27, 1864/ Hon. Sec. Of Treasury/ My dear Sir/ It has occurred to me that when you get a proof sheet in print of the new trade rules we better look over them again with a little care/ Yours truly / A(braham) Lincoln (signed).” Folds showing, two small spots on right margin, otherwise nicely matted in 10.5″ x 13.5″ frame. Mint. An excellent Abraham Lincoln signed autograph letter. Sold for $32,548.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Abraham Lincoln Autograph. Click to enlarge.

John Adams ALS as President, Who Didn’t Have a Full-Time Military! — “…an Army and Navy Establishment is essential to the present & future Interests & Greatness of the United States…”

Historically important John Adams autograph letter signed dated 19 July 1799, during his term as the second American President. Adams writes from Quincy, Massachusetts to Secretary of War James McHenry regarding the need for a standing army and navy, warning of embarrassment should the department heads be surprised. After the end of the American Revolution, the U.S., distrustful of standing militaries, sold off the last ship in its Continental navy and disbanded its army. A small navy was reinstated to protect American commerce with the onset of war in Europe in 1793. The U.S. negotiated a treaty with Britain but negotiations with France broke down during the XYZ affair. France, an ally to the American colonies during the American Revolution, now saw the U.S. as a British ally during their own war with England, and began seizing American merchant ships. In 1798, Congress established a Department of the Navy and empowered the merchant marine to defend American ships. A provisional army was also authorized. Peace negotiations with France began in January 1799, while Adams continued to build up the American military, as reflected in this letter. It reads in part, “…I agree with you…that both an Army and Navy Establishment is essential to the present and future Interests & Greatness of the United States and that We must run the Risks which other Nations have run. It appeared to me that Offices were created and Salaries made necessary in the Plan for Supplying the Army, which would require the Interposition of Congress, But if the Powers already given to Administration are Sufficient I am Satisfied…J. Adams”. This letter appears in “The Works of John Adams,” volume 8, 1856. Minor foxing and dampstaining along left edge of single page letter, measuring 8″ x 9.75″. Separation to folds; overall very good. Sold for $27,000.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.

Consign your All the US Presidents autograph collection at Nate D. Sanders Auctions. Email a description & photos of your All the US Presidents autograph collection to [email protected].

George Washington & Thomas Jefferson Large 1793 Document Signed by Washington as President and Jefferson as Secretary of State

Scarce single-page document dated 8 October 1793 signed by President George Washington, “Go: Washington” and Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson “Th: Jefferson” printed in three columns in French, English and Dutch. Issued to “Gabriel Haven, master and commander of the Brigantine called The Betsey of New York lying at present in the port of New York bound for the West Indies and laden with Onions and Flour.” The middle panel contains Washington and Jefferson’s signatures in ink along with New York Mayor Richard Varick and of John Lamb, Collector of Customs for the Port of New York. The United States of America and Mayoralty of New York paper seals are intact on the document, which measures 12.5″ x 16″ and is displayed in a 15.5″ x 21.5″ frame. Slight toning, folds and some chipping; overall very good. Sold for $26,502.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.

President George Washington Autograph Letter Signed 1790

Handsome George Washington autograph letter signed as President. Single page, folio, dated 20 February 1790, to Thomas Mifflin, signer of the Constitution and Governor of Pennsylvania. In full: “Sir, / I have the honor to transmit to your Excellency an Act passed in the second Session of the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States – entitled ‘an Act for giving effect to the several Acts therein mentioned, in respect to the State of North Carolina, and other purposes’. I have the honor to be, / With due consideration / Your Excellency’s / Most Obedient Servt. / G. Washington.” On 21 November 1789, North Carolina became the twelfth state to ratify the Constitution. When Congress assembled at its second session in January, 1790, President Washington called attention in his message to the favorable nature of public affairs and the rising respectability of the United States as a nation. Proof was afforded by the accession of North Carolina to the Union, leaving only Rhode Island yet to ratify the Constitution. The two states plight outside the Union had become so desperate that Congress at its first session consented to relieve the ships of those states for a limited period from the burden of a foreign tonnage duty which amounted to 50 cents per ton for foreign vessels, while domestic vessels paid six cents per ton. This letter discusses the first act passed by the second session of the First Congress in January, 1790, which specified the laying of duties on goods and merchandise imported into the state of North Carolina from any foreign port or place and upon the tonnage of all ships and vessels. The act further created five districts and four official ports of entry for collection of duties. An important early Federalist document. Washington’s signature is dark and prominent. In fine condition. Sold for $25,337.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.

John Adams Twice-Signed Check — Slabbed by PSA/DNA

John Adams twice-signed check, signed ”John Adams” at lower right and also ”John Adams Welsh” to his namesake, the son of his close friends Thomas and Abigail Welsh. Partially printed check is drawn from the ”Massachusetts Bank” in 1815 for $100, filled out in Adams’ hand, and unusual in that most payments of the time were entirely handwritten, in the form of a promissory note, and not a bank-issued document such as this. Check measures 4.75” x 2”, irregularly trimmed along edges. Two file holes, not affecting signatures; overall in very good plus condition. Slabbed by PSA/DNA. A rare check signed by the second President. Sold for $24,361.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click to enlarge.

George Washington Autograph Document Signed as President, Also Signed by Thomas Jefferson as Secretary of State

George Washington and Thomas Jefferson document signed as President and Secretary of State. Datelined Philadelphia on 8 March 1792, document appoints “Zachariah Rhodes of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations…Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of Patuxet”. Vellum document measures 14.25″ x 12″ with intact red wax-based paper seal. Repaired separation and paper loss along folds, and light soiling. Signatures of “Go. Washington” and “Th. Jefferson” are large and remain strong. Sold for $20,406.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Click image to enlarge.

Superb Abraham Lincoln Autograph Letter Signed as President, Regarding Possible War Profiteering During the Civil War — “…I expected that when…the price of a…gun was fixed, it would stand…”

Abraham Lincoln autograph letter signed as President with exceptional content regarding arms requisitions, dated 23 April 1862 during the early years of the Civil War as the government’s military expenditures were dramatically increasing. Lincoln’s legal instincts are sharp here, as he analyzes a contract for the purchase of guns, putting a contractor on notice that varying prices will be challenged, and making sure that the government doesn’t fall victim to war profiteering or fraud. Sold for $20,124.

All the US Presidents autograph collection
Abraham Lincoln Autograph. Click to enlarge.
University Archives COA. Click image to enlarge.

Exceptional George Washington Autograph Document Signed as President

Partly printed document signed by President George Washington authorizing a parcel of land be given to James Pendleton for his military service, dated 18 August 1796. Document reads in part, “…in consideration of Military Service, performed by James Pendleton (A Captain for seven years) to the United States…and in pursuance of an Act of the Congress of the United States, passed on the 10th day of August, in the year 1790, entituled [sic] ‘An Act to enable the Officers and Soldiers of the Virginia Line on Continental Establishment, to obtain Titles to certain Lands lying north west of the river Ohio, between the Little Miami and Sciota;’…There is granted, by the said United States, unto Robert Pollard, assignee of the said James Pendleton a certain Tract of Land containing one thousand acres…” Countersigned by James McHenry, Secretary of War on the verso, which is also docketed with notations on the recording of the deed. Land bounties such as the one offered here were issued to reward military service in past wars and encourage enlistment in pending wars. Virginia gave more generous bounties than any other colony or state and a special Virginia Military District was reserved north of the Ohio to fulfill these grants. Signed boldly at conclusion “G.Washington”. Single-page vellum document measures 12.5″ x 14.5″. In very good plus condition with a fine embossed seal and a fine, dark signature. Document itself is lightly toned with mild creasing and typical folds, one running vertical through Washington’s signature, though nearly imperceptible. Sold for $19,036.

Click image to enlarge.

Collection of Items Signed by Four Presidents: Thomas Jefferson & James Madison Ship’s Paper Signed, Abraham Lincoln Autograph Note Signed, and Woodrow Wilson Signature

Collection of three items signed by four Presidents: Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and Woodrow Wilson. Lot includes:

1) Scalloped ship’s paper signed by Thomas Jefferson as President and James Madison as Secretary of State. Attractive document features two nautical vignettes, undated, likely signed by the men prior to intended use as was the custom. With intact red wax-backed paper seal. Vellum document measures 10.25” x 15.5”. Folds, else near fine.

2) Abraham Lincoln autograph note signed as President, dated during the Civil War on 16 September 1861. Lincoln writes in full, ”I approve the within, if no objection is known at the War Department. / A. Lincoln / Sep. 16, 1861.” Visible portion of note measures 3.125” x 2”. Not examined out of frame, but appears near fine.

3. Large Woodrow Wilson signature, measuring 5” x 3”. Not examined out of frame. Some haloing to signature, else near fine. Sold for $13,750.

Click image to enlarge.

Incredibly Scarce James Garfield Autograph on a Military Appointment as President — The Second-Rarest Presidential Signature is a James Garfield Autograph as President

President James Garfield autograph on a military appointment, dated 14 May 1881. Document awards the rank of captain to George W. Crabb of the Fifth Regiment of Artillery. Signed at the lower right, “James A. Garfield” and countersigned by Secretary of War Robert Todd Lincoln. Less than two months after the signing of this document, on 2 July 1881, President Garfield, walking arm in arm with Secretary of State James G. Blaine, was shot twice at close range by assassin Charles Guiteau. Mortally wounded, the President struggled for eighty days before he died on 19 September 1881. Single page document measures 15.5″ x 19.5″ and is printed on parchment with two patriotic emblems flanking the document. Royal blue paper seal is still intact at upper left corner. Very light toning to lower margins and minor creasing to edges, otherwise in fine condition. Any signed items from President Garfield are exceedingly rare — military appointments even more so — considering his short tenure in office. Dark James Garfield autograph. Sold for $9,500.

Click image to enlarge.

Rare Benjamin Harrison Signed Cabinet Card

Benjamin Harrison cabinet card signed “Benj Harrison” in heavy black ink to border. Print identifies the photographer as Clark of Indiana and dates the image to 1888. Measures 4.25″ x 6.25″. Toning, foxing and light staining to card. Very good condition with bold signature. Sold for $4,250.

Click image to enlarge.

William Taft Supreme Court Signed Photo by All Nine

9.5″ x 9″ matte photo of the Taft Supreme Court, circa 1921, signed by all nine justices. William Howard Taft was the only President to become a U.S. Chief Justice. Appointed in July 1921, he is shown here seated in the middle of the front row. He signs, “Wm H. Taft”. The remaining eight justices are (front row) William R. Day, Joseph McKenna, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., Willis Van Devanter, (back row) Louis D. Brandeis, Mahlon Pitney, James C. McReynolds and John H. Clarke. Taft served as Chief Justice until his death in 1930. The sepia photo by Clinedinst Studio is matted and framed to an overall size of 18″ x 17″. Creasing in signature area, else very good. Chipping to frame; paper backing has been removed. Overall very good. Sold for $3,411.

Click image to enlarge.

FREE APPRAISAL. To buy, auction, sell or consign your All the US Presidents autograph collection that is for sale, please email your description and photos to [email protected] of Nate D. Sanders Auctions (http://www.NateDSanders.com).

We offer the following for your All the US Presidents autograph collection:

  • Appraise All the US Presidents autograph collection.
  • Auction All the US Presidents autograph collection.
  • Consign All the US Presidents autograph collection.
  • Estimate All the US Presidents autograph collection.
  • Sell All the US Presidents autograph collection.
  • All the US Presidents autograph collection valuation.

Related Posts

  • Sell or Auction Your 1960 Fender Precision Bass Bass Guitar for up to About $25,000 or More at Nate D. Sanders Auctions
  • Sell or Auction Your 1960 Gibson ES-355 Stereo Electric Guitar for up to Nearly $25,000 or More at Nate D. Sanders Auctions
  • Sell or Auction Your Beastie Boys Signed Record Album LP for up to Nearly $17,500 or More at Nate D. Sanders Auctions
Follow the latest on art, autographs, memorabilia, movie memorabilia, space memorabilia & sports memorabilia.

© 2026 Hollywood Memorabilia, Fine Autographs, & Consignments Blog

Consign With Us

Do you have a high-value item that you would like to get the maximum price possible? If so, please call us at (310) 440-2982 or use the form below. A representative of Nate D. Sanders Auctions will contact you concerning your items.

Attach up to 4 pictures in gif, jpg or png format not to exceed 4Mb.

There are two methods to select your images after you clicking “Choose Files”:

While holding the Shift Key down, select the first image and the last image. All images between will be highlighted.

While holding the CTrl Key down, select each image one click at a time. Only the selected images will be chosen. Then click “Open” and the selected files will be included in the form.

You can also email us at [email protected]

Consign With Us

Do you have a high-value item that you would like to get the maximum price possible? If so, please call us at (310) 440-2982 or use the form below. A representative of Nate D. Sanders Auctions will contact you concerning your items.

Attach up to 4 pictures in gif, jpg or png format not to exceed 4Mb.

There are two methods to select your images after you clicking “Choose Files”:

While holding the Shift Key down, select the first image and the last image. All images between will be highlighted.

While holding the CTrl Key down, select each image one click at a time. Only the selected images will be chosen. Then click “Open” and the selected files will be included in the form.

You can also email us at [email protected]

  • Auction
    • Current Auction
    • Instructions
  • Register
  • Consign
    • Consign With Us
    • Noteable Estates & Testimonials
  • Prices Realized
  • Blog
  • In The News
  • My Account
  • Contact
Facebook X Instagram
Search