Up for sale is an authentic 1861 Abraham Lincoln Inaugural-era presidential commemorative. This piece was produced in early 1861 to celebrate the transition of power as the nation stood on the brink of the Civil War.
This specific variant is the iconic "The Presidents of Our Great Republic" design, featuring 16 U.S. Presidents in finely detailed oval vignettes surrounding a central engraving of the White House (then referred to as the "President’s House").
Lincoln Portrait: Located at the bottom center, labeled simply "1861." Unlike the other presidents, no end-date is listed, confirming this was printed at the very start of his first term.
Variant Note: While this design is most famously attributed to New York publisher Charles Magnus, this is a scarcer "trade variant" without the publisher's imprint—typical of items sold by local stationers and booksellers in the 1860s.
Size: Approximately 8 1/4" x 5" (Large Note Sheet / Cabinet Size).
Material: Printed on heavy, period-correct cardstock (thicker than standard letter paper).
Condition: Excellent structural condition for its age. Features authentic foxing (spotting) and light toning throughout, which provides a beautiful, untouched "antique" patina. No tears, pinholes, or modern repairs. (Please see high-res photos for details).