Title:
Schuyler Colfax Free Franked Congressional Cover – 1863 – PSA/DNA Certified Authentic Auto

Description:
Presented here is an original free franked cover signed by Schuyler Colfax, the 17th Vice President of the United States and then-Speaker of the House, postmarked October 5 in South Bend, Indiana, and dated 1863. Colfax’s signature appears in dark ink as “Free Schuyler Colfax / Speaker H.R.” on a partial envelope addressed to C.D. Nair, Esq., Secretary of Y.M.C.A., Geneva, N.Y.

The envelope features clear postal markings, including the South Bend circular cancellation, and an embossed patriotic design from the 39th Congress, House of Representatives with a partially visible eagle vignette and the text “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The reverse includes additional period handwriting, noting:

“Hon. Lot Morrill / To Hon. John B. Bridges / Castine Me. / (1)863.”

The cover is trimmed at the edges, consistent with preservation of only the signed panel. Despite this, the historical markings, signature, and congressional associations remain fully intact and clearly legible.

Historical Context:
Schuyler Colfax (1823–1885) was a powerful political figure during the American Civil War and Reconstruction. A staunch abolitionist and ally of Abraham Lincoln, Colfax served as Speaker of the House during the 1860s and later as Vice President under Ulysses S. Grant from 1869 to 1873. He was widely respected for his advocacy of civil rights and his role in guiding wartime legislation through Congress.

Free franking privileges allowed members of Congress and high government officials to send mail without postage—provided they signed the item—making these covers important relics of 19th-century American political and postal history. This example, dated during the Civil War, offers valuable insight into Colfax’s active correspondence as a congressional leader.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
This historical artifact has been authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA, the industry’s gold standard in autograph certification. The PSA label reads:

• "FREE FRANK – Schuyler Colfax – PSA/DNA Certified – Authentic Auto"

• Certification Number: 85585685

The cover is housed in a PSA tamper-evident holder, ensuring its authenticity and protection.

Closing Appeal:
This 1863 free franked envelope signed by Schuyler Colfax is a significant and visually striking piece of Civil War-era political history. With its bold autograph, congressional provenance, and PSA/DNA certification, it serves as a rare and tangible link to a key figure in Lincoln’s wartime Congress. An outstanding collectible for enthusiasts of presidential history, Civil War correspondence, or classic American postal documents.