Title:
Woodrow Wilson TLS as Governor of New Jersey – May 21, 1912 – PSA/DNA Certified Authentic Auto | Presidential Campaign Era
Description:
This is an original Typed Letter Signed (TLS) by Woodrow Wilson, dated May 21, 1912, on official “State of New Jersey Executive Department” letterhead, during his tenure as Governor of New Jersey and at the height of his presidential campaign. Addressed to Mr. H. H. Buck in Washington, D.C., the letter reads:
"My dear Mr. Buck:—
Allow me to acknowledge with real appreciation your courtesy in sending me the list of delegates from Maryland, annotated and explained. It will be of great service to me.
Cordially and sincerely yours,
Woodrow Wilson"
Wilson’s signature appears boldly at the bottom in black ink. The document features the New Jersey state seal at the upper left and is typed on lightly toned paper with expected folds and some corner wear, typical of correspondence over a century old. This piece is authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA, with certification number 89616233, and the label denotes “AUTHENTIC AUTO.”
Historical Context:
Dated just weeks before the 1912 Democratic National Convention, this letter provides a rare, firsthand glimpse into Woodrow Wilson’s presidential campaign strategy. At the time, Wilson was emerging as a serious contender for the Democratic nomination. The referenced list of delegates from Maryland was undoubtedly political intelligence intended to guide convention maneuvering.
Wilson would go on to secure the nomination and win the presidency later that year, ultimately serving two consequential terms (1913–1921). His time as president included leadership through World War I, the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, and the controversial push for the League of Nations. Letters from his pre-presidential period, especially those with clear campaign relevance, are significantly rarer than those from his time in office.
Authentication & Encapsulation:
This item has been authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA.
-
Certification Number: 89616233
-
Label Reads: “LETTER / WOODROW WILSON / PSA/DNA CERTIFIED / AUTHENTIC AUTO”
-
Encapsulation Type: PSA/DNA oversized slab
-
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 signed letter offers collectors a rare opportunity to own a Woodrow Wilson autograph tied directly to his successful 1912 presidential campaign—a moment that helped shape the course of 20th-century American politics. Its direct political content, gubernatorial letterhead, and impeccable PSA-certified authenticity make it a cornerstone item for collectors of presidential, political, or early 20th-century American 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.
