Lot # 2974: 1863 Abraham Lincoln Signed Military Commission - JSA

United States military commission, dated March 10, 1863 and signed by Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), sixteenth President of the United States. The fully executed commission, which is partially handwritten and printed on vellum, appoints W. M. Vogleson as "Commissary of Subsistence of Volunteers, with the rank of Captain." The commission has been signed in black ink by "Abraham Lincoln" and also by Secretary of War Edwin Stanton. One of the many distinguishing characteristics of military commissions is the fact that Lincoln always penned his full-name signature, rather than "A. Lincoln," the form commonly found on other documents and letters. As such, commissions have always been highly prized by advanced collectors. One of the more interesting aspects of this piece is that two months prior, on January 1, 1863, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which freed enslaved people in the Confederate territory. The document features an elaborately engraved vignette containing all the elements of the Great Seal of the United States, with the words "The President of the United States of America" as its banner, making it particularly ideal for display. The original blue paper seal remains firmly attached at the top. The document (13.5 x 17.5 inches) has normal folds (as issued) and a small chip missing on the bottom edge. Technically in Very Good condition, with an even stronger overall Excellent appearance. This is an exceptional Lincoln signed commission, dating from the height of the Civil War, and one that would be a highlight addition to any advanced Lincoln, presidential, or Civil War collection. Full LOA from James Spence/JSA. The size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot.