Abraham Lincoln (1809ÊÐ 1865) was an American politician and lawyer who served as the 16th President of the United States from March 1861 until his assassination in April 1865. Lincoln led the United States through its Civil WarÑits bloodiest war and perhaps its greatest moral, constitutional, and political crisis. In doing so, he preserved the Union, paved the way to abolition of slavery, strengthened the federal government, and modernized the economy. Abraham Lincoln signed document while president of the United States. Document appoints John Vinson to collector of customs for Edgertown, Mass. Document has officia embossed seal. Has some pencil notes on bottom. Paper shows light toning. Signature is bold and clear. Document has been folded. Wonderful piece of American history. 17"x11" Prov. Comes with news article from 1956 talking about letter Lincoln letter found talking about the appointment of John Vinson.