Grover Cleveland Humorous ALS as President on Executive Mansion Letterhead Re: Presidential Likeness

A 2pp autograph letter signed by 22nd U.S. President Grover Cleveland (1837-1908), as "Grover Cleveland" at the center of the second page. Written in Washington, D.C. on April 3, 1885 on bifold stationery with "Executive Mansion / Washington" embossed in blue at the letterhead. Inscribed on the first and second pages; the third and fourth pages are blank. Expected transmittal folds. Light pencil inscriptions probably made by former collectors on the last page. Else near fine. 4.375" x 7."

President Grover Cleveland wrote this cordial letter to one Edward A. Oldham, who had evidently forwarded him an artist's portrait of Cleveland, or perhaps a photograph of a presidential lookalike. Cleveland was fast approaching the first month anniversary of his first presidential term. It is remarkable, then, that the busy president took the time to compose this deadpan response!

In full:

"April 3rd 1885

Edward A. Oldham Esq

My dear Sir:

Your letter asking the judgments of my friends upon the likeness you send me is received.

In reply I have to say that I am of the opinion that a majority [of] my friends who have seen the picture, think it a good one.

Yours very truly

Grover Cleveland."

Cleveland served two non-consecutive presidential terms, between 1885-1889 and 1893-1897.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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