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Lot #94
Mary Todd Lincoln

Signature of one of history’s most storied first ladies

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Description

Signature of one of history’s most storied first ladies

Wife of President Abraham Lincoln (1818 -1882) and First Lady from 1861 to 1865. Born into a wealthy Southern family, Mary Todd wed Lincoln in 1842 and bore him four sons, three of whom predeceased her (two as children). Known for her lavish spending and interest in spiritualism, Mrs. Lincoln was viewed by many of her detractors as overbearing and meddlesome; Lincoln’s longtime secretary, John Hay, characterized her as “the hellcat.” As her mental condition continued to deteriorate and her behavior became more erratic following the assassination of her husband, Mrs. Lincoln was committed to an insane asylum by her only surviving son, Robert. After her release she spent several years in France before dying at the age of 63, at the residence of her sister in Springfield, Illinois, where she had spent her early years with Lincoln. Ink signature, “Mary Lincoln,” on an off-white 3.25 x .75 slip, affixed to a slightly larger off-white card. In very good condition, with closely trimmed edges, scattered toning, and signature a shade or two light, but still completely legible. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #354 - Ended February 10, 2010





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
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