Title:
President Gerald R. Ford Signed White House Departure Photo – PSA/DNA Certified MINT 9 | Iconic 1977 Helicopter Farewell Print Cut from Book

Description:
This striking black-and-white photograph, signed by President Gerald R. Ford, captures the iconic moment of his departure from the White House on January 20, 1977, following the inauguration of President Jimmy Carter. The photo, printed on glossy stock, features President Ford and First Lady Betty Ford boarding Marine One on the South Lawn as members of the Carter family look on from the background.

Ford's bold signature is elegantly penned in black ink across the photo's surface, with superb placement and clarity. The item has been authenticated, graded MINT 9, and encapsulated by PSA/DNA, ensuring its authenticity and pristine presentation. The encapsulated photo remains in excellent condition with sharp contrast and no visible blemishes.

• Certification Number: 85416230

• Label Designation: “PRINT / GERALD R FORD / PSA/DNA CERTIFIED / AUTO GRADE”

Historical Context:
This image documents a poignant and symbolic transition of power: the peaceful handoff from President Ford, the 38th President of the United States, to his successor, Jimmy Carter. Ford had assumed the presidency in 1974 after the resignation of Richard Nixon and worked to restore national confidence and unity during a turbulent post-Watergate era. His final act as president, captured here, embodies the dignity and grace with which he exited office. This moment—First Lady Betty Ford kissing the incoming First Lady Rosalynn Carter while Gerald Ford bids farewell—was widely published and became an enduring representation of democratic continuity.

Signed examples of this historic image, particularly those professionally authenticated and graded, are scarce and highly desirable.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
This item has been authenticated, graded, and encapsulated by PSA/DNA.

• Grade: MINT 9

• Certification Number: 85416230

• Label Reads: “PRINT / GERALD R FORD / PSA/DNA CERTIFIED / AUTO GRADE”

• Encapsulation Type: PSA/DNA oversized archival slab

• 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 signed, PSA-graded MINT 9 photo immortalizes a powerful moment in American presidential history—one of grace, bipartisanship, and statesmanship. With Gerald R. Ford’s crisp autograph boldly displayed and preserved to the highest standard, this is a centerpiece item for collectors of presidential memorabilia or 20th-century American political history. A rare and meaningful relic from a pivotal day in U.S. democratic tradition.

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.