Title:
Rutherford B. Hayes – Autograph Presidential Pardon Document Signed, June 19, 1878 – Washington, D.C. – PSA LOA (Cert. #AR02386)

Description:
Offered here is an original presidential manuscript document signed by Rutherford B. Hayes, dated Washington, June 19, 1878. The document is entirely handwritten in a clerical hand and boldly signed by President Hayes at conclusion:

“R. B. Hayes”

The text reads in full:

I hereby authorize and direct the Secretary of State to affix the Seal of the United States to a warrant for the pardon of Spencer Isom(?).

dated this day, and signed by me; and for so doing this shall be his warrant.

R. B. Hayes

Washington, 19th June, 1878.

This concise but powerful document authorizes the formal issuance of a presidential pardon, directing the Secretary of State to affix the Seal of the United States to the official warrant. The paper shows expected horizontal fold lines from original handling, light age toning, and minor surface impressions consistent with 19th-century governmental documents. The signature remains clear and well-preserved.

Historical Context:
Rutherford B. Hayes (1822–1893), the 19th President of the United States (1877–1881), assumed office following the highly contested election of 1876. His presidency marked the end of Reconstruction, as federal troops were withdrawn from the South in 1877.

Executive clemency—particularly pardons—was an important constitutional power exercised by Hayes. During his administration, Hayes issued numerous pardons in cases involving federal offenses, Reconstruction-related prosecutions, and various criminal matters. Documents authorizing the affixing of the Great Seal were an essential procedural step in formalizing clemency actions, making this an official presidential directive tied directly to the constitutional authority vested in the executive branch under Article II.

Dated mid-term in 1878, this document represents Hayes actively exercising executive authority during a period of national political transition and reconciliation following the Civil War era.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Accompanied by a full PSA Letter of Authenticity dated February 6, 2026, certification number AR02386. PSA has authenticated the signature of Rutherford B. Hayes. The LOA provides third-party verification and long-term collector assurance.

• 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:
A presidential pardon authorization signed by Rutherford B. Hayes represents a direct exercise of constitutional executive power. Combining strong historical significance, clear presidential content, and professional PSA authentication, this 1878 document is an exceptional acquisition for collectors of American presidential history, Reconstruction-era material, and executive branch memorabilia.

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.