Abraham Lincoln signed executive order, dated 1 September 1864, approximately two months before the Presidential election. Lincoln handwrites, ''Approved and ordered. / A. Lincoln / Sep. 1, 1864.'' Slip measures 3'' x 2.625''. Mounting remnants to verso, overall in very good plus condition, also with bold handwriting.

At this time in 1864, with the Civil War dragging on and Northern casualties mounting, Lincoln's re-election as President was not assured and doubts must have weighed heavy on his mind. If he were to be defeated, the entire United States would be in jeopardy as peace terms with the Confederacy would likely be negotiated. Though not known when he penned this order, he would ultimately triumph, of course, in his bid for the White House and the Union would prevail.