Thomas Nast Signed PSA Cut Auto Creator of Republican Elephant & Dem. Donkey

Title:
Thomas Nast Signed Cut – Dated February 10, 1876 – PSA/DNA Certified Authentic Auto (Encapsulated #85641661)

Description:
Offered here is a rare cut signature of famed political cartoonist Thomas Nast, signed "Th: Nast" and dated in his hand "Feb. 10 – 1876." The autograph is rendered in bold ink on a light tan paper slip, measuring approximately 2" x 3.5", and is preserved in a PSA/DNA archival holder. The front displays well, with Nast’s signature clearly legible and centered. The reverse shows slight paper loss and adhesive residue from prior mounting, which does not affect the autograph side.

Nast’s signature is compact yet confident, providing a direct connection to the man widely regarded as the "Father of the American Cartoon."

Historical Context:
Thomas Nast (1840–1902) was one of the most influential visual commentators in American history. His illustrations for Harper’s Weekly shaped public opinion during the Reconstruction era and the Gilded Age. Nast is credited with popularizing enduring American symbols such as the Democratic donkey, the Republican elephant, and the modern image of Santa Claus.

In 1876, the year this piece was signed, the United States was celebrating its Centennial, and Nast was actively producing powerful political cartoons reflecting the heated Rutherford B. Hayes–Samuel Tilden presidential election and ongoing national tensions during Reconstruction. His sharp visual commentary helped shape political discourse and public sentiment during a critical moment in U.S. history.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Certified authentic by PSA/DNA with tamper-evident encapsulation

• Certification Number: 85641661

• Label reads: "CUT / THOMAS NAST / PSA/DNA CERTIFIED / AUTHENTIC AUTO"

• Slabbed in archival PSA holder for long-term preservation and display

• 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 1876-dated autograph from Thomas Nast—bold, compact, and historically placed—is a superb artifact for collectors of political history, media, and Americana. With PSA certification, excellent front presentation, and direct ties to one of the most iconic visual commentators in U.S. history, it represents an ideal investment for those seeking rare 19th-century autographs with cultural significance.

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.