Title:
Very Rare William H. Seward Signed Miniature Engraved Portrait – w/ Autograph Inscription – PSA/DNA Certified Authentic

Description:
Original engraved portrait of William H. Seward mounted to period backing, signed and inscribed in dark ink beneath the image. The inscription reads:

William H. Seward
To John Young (?) from (?) Richardson

(Note: The secondary inscription line is partially difficult to decipher due to age and mounting remnants; the above reflects the clearest visible reading.)

The engraved portrait depicts Seward in profile, consistent with mid-19th century steel engravings produced during and after his tenure as Secretary of State. The lower margin bears Seward’s bold signature, written in fluid script. The paper shows moderate age toning, edge wear, and mounting residue on both front and reverse, consistent with historical display or album mounting.

The reverse exhibits adhesive remnants and period mounting evidence, further supporting authenticity and age. Despite cosmetic wear, the signature remains legible and visually appealing.

Historical Context:
William Henry Seward (1801–1872) served as U.S. Senator from New York and later as Secretary of State under Presidents Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson. A leading anti-slavery voice prior to the Civil War, Seward famously described the coming conflict as an “irrepressible conflict” between free and slave states.

As Secretary of State (1861–1869), Seward played a critical diplomatic role during the Civil War, helping prevent European recognition of the Confederacy. He is perhaps most widely remembered for negotiating the 1867 purchase of Alaska from Russia—initially mocked as “Seward’s Folly,” but later recognized as a strategic triumph.

On April 14, 1865, the same night President Lincoln was assassinated, Seward survived a brutal assassination attempt in his own home, suffering serious injuries.

Signed engraved portraits are highly desirable among collectors, as they combine period imagery with an authentic autograph, often intended for presentation. This example is the first that we have handled at the gallery, and it is particularly unique, as it is a miniature example of an engraving! 

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Encapsulated and certified authentic by PSA/DNA. The slab label reads:
“CUT – WILLIAM H. SEWARD – PSA/DNA CERTIFIED – AUTHENTIC AUTO,” with certification number 85750927. The tamper-evident encapsulation ensures secure preservation and verified authenticity.

• 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 PSA/DNA-certified William H. Seward signed engraved portrait offers collectors a compelling combination of Civil War–era political history and authentic autograph material. Bearing the signature of one of Abraham Lincoln’s most trusted cabinet members and the architect of the Alaska Purchase, this piece represents a distinguished and historically rich addition to any advanced collection of 19th-century American statesmen.

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.