Title:
1885 Bank of the Metropolis Check Signed by Daniel Sickles — PSA/DNA Certified

Description:
Original 1885 check drawn on the Bank of the Metropolis and signed by Daniel E. Sickles, Union general, politician, and one of the most controversial figures of 19th-century America. The check, dated May 21, 1885, is made out to an individual or business (illegible due to cancellation marks) in the amount of fifteen dollars, and boldly signed at lower right in dark brown ink as “D.E. Sickles.”

Sickles’ signature remains bold and well-preserved, while the check itself exhibits minor age toning and creasing, with expected cancellation markings including ink smudges and a small punch hole. The reverse bears additional handwritten notations and endorsements. The item is authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA, in a tamper-evident holder labeled:
“CHECK – DANIEL SICKLES – PSA/DNA CERTIFIED – AUTHENTIC AUTO”, certification number 85724962.

Historical Context:
Daniel Edgar Sickles (1819–1914) was a complex and controversial figure in American history. A Civil War general, Sickles is best known for his command at the Battle of Gettysburg, where he famously disobeyed orders and advanced his troops without authorization — a decision that nearly cost the Union dearly, though some argue it disrupted a Confederate assault. Earlier in his life, Sickles made headlines for murdering his wife’s lover, Philip Barton Key (son of Francis Scott Key), in broad daylight in 1859 — and was acquitted by the first successful use of the temporary insanity defense in U.S. legal history.

After the war, Sickles served in various diplomatic and political roles, including as U.S. Minister to Spain and New York State Assemblyman. His postwar years were as colorful as his military career, and his bold autograph is highly sought after by Civil War and legal history collectors alike.

Authentication & Encapsulation:

• Certified Authentic by PSA/DNA

• PSA/DNA Certification #: 85724962

• Slabbed in PSA tamper-evident holder for long-term preservation

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
This 1885 signed check by Daniel E. Sickles offers collectors a rare, tangible piece of a truly unique American life — a man who was at the center of major military, political, and legal moments in U.S. history. With its bold signature and PSA/DNA certification, this check is a distinctive artifact that bridges the worlds of Civil War history, true crime, and early American jurisprudence.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.