RZM Fine Arts and Antiques Inc: Ask the Appraiser

Good afternoon, Jon. My family has had this framed certificate for many years. It appears to be signed by Abraham Lincoln. Could this be possible? If so, and if we wanted to sell it, what do you believe it is worth? My grandmother used to tell me that it was very special and that was the reason my father had it framed. Sadly, both those family members are long deceased. So, now I’m deciding what to do with it. I am really not terribly interested in history, but I do know many people are. My neighbor is a big fan of your article, and she suggested that I contact you for assistance with this item. Thank you in advance.

Terry

Let me start right off by informing you that what is in your possession is an exceptional signed manuscript, or presidential document, written on vellum paper, Civil War dated 26th of November, 1862. More importantly, it brings together the signatures of the sixteenth President of the United States Abraham Lincoln and Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton, highlighting the crucial, yet often tumultuous, administrative partnership that defined the Union war effort. It is a Civil War military appointment, promoting Robert C. Barnes as Quartermaster with the rank of Captain in the Union Army. Following the resignation of Simon Cameron, Lincoln’s first secretary of war, Lincoln appointed Stanton on January 15, 1862. On the night of April 14, 1865, Stanton was at home when informed of President Lincoln’s shooting. He immediately rushed to the Peterson House, taking charge of the scene, interrogating witnesses and organizing the federal response to both Lincoln and Secretary of State Seward’s attacks. When Lincoln died from a shot fired by John Wilkes Booth, Stanton lamented at Lincoln’s bedside, “Now he belongs to the ages.” As a historian I believe your document offers a remarkable glimpse into the inner workings of the Lincoln administration, featuring a direct, handwritten interaction between the president and his indispensable, though stern, Secretary or War Edwin Stanton. Essentially this document has not one, but two important historical signatures. It’s beautifully illustrated with an engraving of the American eagle at the top and a vignette of military cannons and United States flags at the bottom. The document appears to have remained in very fine condition and is attractively framed and matted with an engraved image of the sixteenth president to the right of the document. I will not keep you in suspense any longer as to the value. The market for Abraham Lincoln autographed documents is best described as a high stake, “blue-chip” defined by an accelerating scarcity of such items. The demand for Abraham Lincoln signed material, driven by both private collectors and institutions, consistently outpaces the dwindling, finite supply. Leading to significant price appreciation, especially for top-tier items, such as yours. The value of your Lincoln / Stanton Civil War Military Appointment is $12,000 USD. Perhaps now, you might have a bit more interest in history.