Franklin D. Roosevelt Signed First Day Cover – On Board Yawl Myth II During His 1932 Presidential Campaign – PSA/DNA Certified

This is a First Day Cover (FDC) hand-signed by Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States (1933–1945). The envelope is postmarked July 21, 1932, Albany, New York, and includes Roosevelt’s handwritten notation indicating that he signed it "On Board Yawl Myth II, July 11 – 1932, at Port Jefferson, N.Y." This reference marks a well-documented sailing trip Roosevelt took during his 1932 presidential campaign, just days after securing the Democratic nomination for president.

Front Details:

• Signature & Inscription: Roosevelt inscribed and signed the cover in black ink, writing:
  "Franklin D. Roosevelt on Board Yawl Myth II, July 11 – 1932, at Port Jefferson, N.Y."
• Postmarks: A July 21, 1932, Albany, NY postmark connects this cover to Roosevelt’s campaign period.
• Stamps: Two 6-cent Eagle Airmail stamps are affixed to the top right corner, both postmarked.
• "Via Air Mail" Label: A printed "Via Air Mail" marking appears on the left side.
• Addressed To: Eugene R. Stark, 33 Emily St., Springfield, Massachusetts.

Historical Context – Roosevelt's Sailing Trip on Myth II

In July 1932, following his acceptance of the Democratic presidential nomination, Franklin D. Roosevelt launched his campaign with a weeklong sailing trip from Port Jefferson, New York, aboard the yawl Myth II. Departing on July 11, FDR was escorted to the docks by state troopers, greeted by cheering crowds, and seen off by the tooting of boat whistles. The modest 37-foot vessel, rented from Prescott B. Huntington, lacked an engine and relied solely on sail power. Accompanied by three of his sons and friend George Briggs, Roosevelt set course for Connecticut, followed by the luxury yacht Ambassadress, carrying his advisors, and the Marcon, packed with journalists documenting his voyage.

Though framed as a vacation cruise, the trip was a strategic political maneuver. Roosevelt anchored in key New England ports, including New Haven, Marblehead, and Portsmouth, where he met with Democratic leaders to unite the party following a divisive nomination battle. Daily press conferences aboard the Marcon showcased FDR’s vitality, countering concerns about his polio disability. The widely covered voyage presented Roosevelt as a strong, capable leader, steering both his sailboat and the nation’s future. This masterfully staged journey helped shape his image, setting the stage for his landslide victory over Herbert Hoover in the November 8, 1932, election—a campaign that began aboard a humble yawl in Port Jefferson Harbor.

Authentication & Encapsulation:

• Authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA, ensuring its authenticity and long-term preservation.
• PSA label reads: "First Day Cover – Franklin D. Roosevelt – PSA/DNA Certified – Authentic Auto," with certification number 85424157.

Condition & Collectibility:

• The signature and handwritten inscription are bold and well-preserved.
• The envelope is in excellent condition, showing minor expected wear for its age.
• Encapsulation by PSA/DNA ensures authenticity and display quality.

This rare and historically significant artifact is an exceptional collectible for those interested in presidential autographs, political history, and maritime themes, offering a tangible connection to Roosevelt’s love of sailing and his journey to the presidency in 1932.