Title:
George H.W. Bush Autograph Letter Signed on Exceptionally Rare White House Stationery — PSA/DNA Slabbed MINT 9 with Scarce “41” Inscription, Possibly Written During His Final Sunday at the White House When He Signed MLK Proclamation and Authorized Airstrikes in Iraq (Cert. #85526519)

Description:
Presented here is an extraordinarily rare Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) by President George H.W. Bush, written in bold blue felt-tip pen on official White House stationery. The long form stationery, bearing the printed heading “The White House — Washington”, is virtually unobtainable in the market, and this is the only example we have ever handled or seen offered at auction.

The handwritten note, addressed to Bush’s longtime White House Valet Samuel Sutton, reads in full:

“Sunday May
5 am
Many thanks for all you did for us
All the best
George Bush
41”

Bush’s addition of the “41” inscription is an especially scarce and highly desirable feature, underscoring his identity as the 41st President of the United States.

The notation of “Sunday” paired with Bush’s words of gratitude strongly suggests that this may have been written on his final Sunday at the White House in January 1993, as he prepared to leave office and expressed appreciation to his loyal staff. On that historic day, President Bush not only thanked White House employees but also authorized airstrikes against Iraq in response to Saddam Hussein’s defiance of U.N. inspectors and signed the annual proclamation honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This timing imbues the note with both historical and emotional weight, placing it against the backdrop of his last moments in office.

Graded MINT 9 by PSA/DNA and permanently encapsulated in their tamper-proof holder, this piece survives in remarkable condition with deep ink contrast and flawless preservation.

Historical Context:
George H.W. Bush (1924–2018), the 41st President of the United States (1989–1993), guided the nation through the fall of the Berlin Wall, the dissolution of the Soviet Union, and the swift victory of Operation Desert Storm. His presidency was marked by diplomacy, coalition-building, and steady leadership at a time of global transformation.

This note’s recipient, Samuel Sutton, faithfully served as Bush’s White House valet, providing daily assistance during his presidency. Letters of such intimacy and gratitude — particularly written during the closing days of an administration — are among the most treasured personal artifacts from modern presidents.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
This ALS has been authenticated, graded MINT 9, and encapsulated by PSA/DNA. Certification number 85526519 guarantees authenticity and ensures the autograph’s preservation within PSA’s archival holder.

• 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 note by George H.W. Bush is not only a handwritten presidential artifact on exceptionally rare White House stationery, but it may also represent one of his final personal expressions of thanks as President — written on his last Sunday in office amidst historic events. Coupled with the highly sought-after “41” inscription and direct connection to a trusted White House aide, this piece is of the utmost rarity and significance. For collectors of presidential history, it stands as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

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.