Title: John L. Worden Signed Cut – Civil War Naval Hero, USS Monitor Commander – Dated 1885 – PSA/DNA Certified Auto Grade GEM MT 10

Description:
This superb cut signature of Rear Admiral John L. Worden is boldly signed in elegant black ink as "John L. Worden / R. Adm. U.S. Navy", accompanied by the handwritten date and location:
"Washington D.C. / March 2nd 1885."
The signature displays outstanding contrast on cream-toned card stock, showing no smudging or fading. The piece is in exceptional condition and has been authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA, earning the highest possible GEM MINT 10 autograph grade.

Historical Context:
John Lorimer Worden (1818–1897) was a distinguished U.S. Navy officer best known as the commander of the USS Monitor, the Union Navy’s first ironclad warship, in its legendary 1862 battle against the CSS Virginia (formerly the Merrimack). This historic clash marked the first engagement between ironclad vessels and revolutionized naval warfare. Despite being wounded during the encounter, Worden's leadership was widely praised, and he went on to command several other ships and serve as Superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy. By the time of this 1885-dated signature, he had reached the rank of Rear Admiral and was revered as a national naval hero.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Certified and slabbed by PSA/DNA, the autograph is preserved in a tamper-evident holder with the label:
"CUT – JOHN L. WORDEN – PSA/DNA CERTIFIED – AUTO GRADE GEM MT 10"
Certification number: 85481264.

Closing Appeal:
This flawless, high-grade signature from one of the most important naval commanders of the Civil War offers collectors a direct connection to the dawn of modern naval warfare. With its historic content, perfect autograph grade, and PSA/DNA certification, it is an exceptional acquisition for collectors of Civil War history, naval heritage, or military innovation.