Abraham Lincoln, 1864

LINCOLN, Abraham (1809-1865). Signed photograph ("A. Lincoln") as President, [Washington], c. December 1864.

Carte-de-visite. Mounted albumen photograph with "Brady's National Photographic Portrait Galleries" credit on verso, 100 x 61mm. With additional contemporary inscription: "Contributed for the benefit of the S[anitary].A[ssociation]. So[ciety]. of Westford Mass. at their Levee Dec. 14th, 1864 by Mr. Lincoln." Double gold ruling at margins (small marginal loss to albumen at top left margin well clear of image, two minor spots of foxing on verso, toned at extreme margins).

Abraham Lincoln signs a "Penny Profile" to raise funds for Union Troops. A fine example of what is perhaps the most recognizable portraits of Abraham Lincoln, taken on 9 February 1864 by photographer Anthony Berger, the manager of Matthew Brady's Washington studio. Victor David Brenner would use this image as the basis to model the Lincoln cent. During that same sitting, Berger also captured the portrait that would later appear on the five dollar bill. Lincoln signed the present image as a means to assist the Sanitary Association of Westford, Massachusetts raise funds for Union soldiers. Ostendorf 89; Maserve 84. Provenance: Edward Stern (per letter by Martha Frolich, 12 September 1972) – purchased by the consignor.

The a very small portion of the top right corner of the mount became detached and has been reaffixed to the piece temporarily. The loss does not affect the albumen. On request of the successful purchaser, the cover will be professionally re-attached at Christie’s expense.