On August 9, 1863, photographer Alexander Gardner opened his doors for the first customer at his new Washington, D.C. studio. One could not ask for a better subject for his first portrait: President Abraham Lincoln. The president was seated at a wooden table where he posed with a sheaf of documents in his left hand and gazed out at the viewer. What makes this image noteworthy is that it was taken just a month after the Battle of Gettysburg and the conclusion of the Siege of Vicksburg, the two Union victories that marked turning of the tide of the Civil War in Lincoln’s favor.

When one takes these events in mind, the slight smile and hopeful gaze on Lincoln’s face take on a whole new meaning. Gardner made copies of the prints into the popular Carte De Visite size, about the same proportions as a modern baseball card. These prints were mounted to a decorated matte board, in this case ornamented with a double gilt-ruled border.

Perhaps the greatest aspect of this card is that Lincoln has signed the front in bold black fountain pen, making this a true museum piece in every aspect. The card shows toning from age along with the expect surface scuffs and rounded corners. The reverse features the handwritten inscription: "Fair held in Pekin, Ill to raise money for soldiers—in early part of war. probably 1862. Photographs sent by Lincoln and autographed by him. $200." We know that the image was not taken until August 9, 1863, so the person who inscribed the note on the back was mistaken as to the date. The event, however, was real, as it is documented that Lincoln was asked for and delivered several signed Carte De Visite to the Pekin, Illinois Soldiers Aid Society Sanitary Fair for the benefit of Union troops.

It is difficult to say how many remain today, but two of the others confirmed to still exist reside in the Smithsonian Museum. A stunning piece of American history autographed by one of the most influential and revered American presidents. This Carte De Visite measures approximately 2 3/8" by 3 3/4" and has been encapsulated and graded a MINT 9 AUTO by PSA/DNA.