A remarkable piece of American history is heading to the auction block this spring, as a pair of leather gloves worn by President Abraham Lincoln on the night of his assassination will be sold as part of a rare collection of 140 artifacts. The gloves, stained with Lincoln’s blood, are among the most valuable items in the upcoming Lincoln Legacy sale.
The auction will be hosted by Freeman’s Hindman in Chicago and is scheduled for May 21. On sale are items ranging from campaign materials to personal keepsakes, but blood-stained gloves are expected to fetch between $800,000 and $1.2 million, drawing interest from collectors, historians, and museums across the country.
Abraham Lincoln’s gloves highlight priceless history
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The auction is being held on behalf of the Lincoln Presidential Foundation, which has preserved thousands of Lincoln-related items. While 1,400 pieces will be retained for educational and scholarly purposes, this auction offers the public a rare opportunity to own a tangible part of American history.
Each artifact in the sale was carefully curated to portray Lincoln’s complex legacy, from handwritten notes from his teenage years to campaign torches and cuff buttons; the collection reveals intimate details about the man behind the presidency. The gloves are a haunting reminder of the tragic night at Ford’s Theatre in 1865.
Artifacts showing Abraham Lincoln’s life and legacy
Another highlight is a handwritten poem by 15-year-old Lincoln, written in a school sum book. Thrice signed, the letter gives an early glimpse of his literary talent and is predicted to make $300,000 to $400,000. It’s one of many personal pieces reflecting his journey from humble beginnings to national leadership.
Another is Lincoln’s first printed work, the Adams Handbill, dating back to 1837. This rare political flyer is expected to bring in up to $300,000. With interest in presidential memorabilia on the rise, the Lincoln Legacy auction is poised to be a landmark event for both collectors and admirers of the US’ 16th president.