President Gerald Ford "Watergate Quote" from Inaugural Address PSA Gem Mint 10

Gerald R. Ford Signed First Day Cover – PSA/DNA GEM MINT 10

This First Day Cover (FDC) is boldly signed by Gerald R. Ford (1913–2006), 38th President of the United States, and features a powerful handwritten inscription:

"My fellow Americans, our long national nightmare is over."
Gerald R. Ford

This iconic quote comes from Ford’s inaugural address on August 9, 1974, following the resignation of Richard Nixon, marking a pivotal moment in American history. The envelope bears a Canada Day of Issue postmark from Ottawa (dated 1986) and features a peace-themed stamp and emblem, complementing the theme of national reconciliation and stability.

Historical Context:
Gerald Ford assumed the presidency in the wake of the Watergate scandal, becoming the first U.S. president to take office without being elected as either president or vice president. His immediate priority was to restore trust in government, and his address to the nation sought to reassure Americans that democracy would endure. Ford’s controversial pardon of Nixon was one of the defining decisions of his presidency, sparking national debate while aiming to heal political divisions.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
This First Day Cover has been authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA, with Ford’s signature receiving a perfect GEM MINT 10 auto grade. The certification number 85419172 ensures its authenticity and high-quality preservation.

Collector’s Appeal:
This signed First Day Cover is an exceptional and historically significant piece, capturing the words that defined one of the most turbulent transitions in U.S. history. With its perfectly graded signature, this artifact is a must-have for collectors of presidential autographs, political memorabilia, and American history enthusiasts.