Title:

President Andrew Johnson Signed Autograph - October 15, 1873 - Washington, D.C. - JSA Authenticated

Description:

An attractive original ink signature of Andrew Johnson (1808-1875), the 17th President of the United States, dated October 15, 1873, in Washington, D.C., approximately four years after the conclusion of his presidency. Executed on a 3" x 4.75" section of blue-lined paper, the autograph features Johnson's distinctive, flowing signature, boldly penned in black ink.

Beneath his signature, Johnson has handwritten the date, "Oct 15th 1873," followed by the location, "Washington D.C." The signature is particularly appealing for its strong ink contrast, elegant penmanship, and accompanying handwritten date and location, firmly placing the autograph within Johnson's post-presidential years.

The piece remains in very good condition, exhibiting expected age-related toning, a horizontal fold, and evidence of previous mounting on the reverse, including adhesive remnants and paper residue. The signature itself remains exceptionally clear and well preserved.

Historical Context:

Andrew Johnson (1808-1875) served as the 17th President of the United States from 1865 to 1869, assuming the presidency following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865. A Tennessee Democrat who remained loyal to the Union during the Civil War, Johnson had been selected as Lincoln's running mate in 1864 as part of an effort to promote national unity.

Johnson inherited the presidency at one of the most consequential moments in American history. With the Civil War drawing to a close, he faced the enormous challenge of reuniting the country, rebuilding the devastated Southern states, and determining the political and civil rights of millions of formerly enslaved Americans.

His presidency became defined by the turbulent Reconstruction era and his increasingly bitter confrontations with the Republican-controlled Congress. Johnson favored a comparatively lenient approach toward the former Confederate states and repeatedly opposed congressional efforts to expand federal protections for freedpeople.

These conflicts culminated in Johnson becoming the first President of the United States to be impeached, when the House of Representatives approved articles of impeachment against him in February 1868. His Senate trial centered largely on his attempted removal of Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton, in violation of the disputed Tenure of Office Act. Johnson ultimately escaped removal from office by a single vote, with the Senate falling one vote short of the two-thirds majority required for conviction.

Following his departure from the White House in March 1869, Johnson returned to Tennessee and remained determined to revive his political career. The present autograph, dated October 15, 1873, was executed during this remarkable period between his presidency and his eventual return to national office.

In January 1875, Johnson achieved an unprecedented political comeback when the Tennessee legislature elected him to the United States Senate. He remains the only former American president to subsequently serve in the Senate. His return was short-lived, however, as he died on July 31, 1875, just months after taking office.

Authentication & Encapsulation:

The signature has been authenticated by James Spence Authentication (JSA) and is accompanied by a full Letter of Authenticity dated May 26, 2011.

• Authentication: James Spence Authentication (JSA)

• Certification Number: X28245

• Submission Number: U5780

• Classification: Presidential Signed Cut

• Date of Signature: October 15, 1873

• Location: Washington, D.C.

• Dimensions: 3" x 4.75"

• Writing Instrument: Dip Pen

• Ink: Black

The accompanying JSA Letter of Authenticity confirms the signature as genuine following examination of its handwriting characteristics, ink flow, letter formation, and other identifying features.

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:

An exceptional opportunity to acquire a boldly executed and independently authenticated autograph of Andrew Johnson, the first impeached President of the United States. Particularly desirable for its handwritten date and Washington, D.C. location, this historical piece captures Johnson during his post-presidential political resurgence, less than two years before his extraordinary return to the United States Senate. A compelling addition to any collection of presidential autographs, Reconstruction-era memorabilia, or American political history.

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.