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University Archives hosts 474-lot rare autographs auction featuring Washington, Lincoln, and Douglass items

market-auction · 2026-04-21

University Archives will conduct an online-only Rare Autographs, Manuscripts & Books auction on Wednesday, May 6th, starting at 10:00am Eastern Time. The sale comprises 474 lots across multiple categories, with highlights including a George Washington free frank signature from January 5, 1780, certified authentic by PSA/DNA. An Abraham Lincoln signed partial check dated February 8, 1861, and a Frederick Douglass signed letter from March 13, 1893, are also featured. Additional notable items include Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Ron Perranoski’s 1965 World Series ring. The full catalog is available for viewing and bidding on University Archives’ website, as well as on Invaluable.com, Auctionzip.com, and LiveAuctioneers.com. Telephone and absentee bids will be accepted. The auction presents a diverse collection of historical manuscripts, autographs, and books.

Key facts

  • Auction date: Wednesday, May 6th
  • Start time: 10:00am Eastern Time
  • Total lots: 474
  • Auction type: online-only
  • Highlight: George Washington free frank signature (January 5, 1780)
  • Highlight: Abraham Lincoln signed partial check (February 8, 1861)
  • Highlight: Frederick Douglass signed letter (March 13, 1893)
  • Bidding platforms: UniversityArchives.com, Invaluable.com, Auctionzip.com, LiveAuctioneers.com

Entities

Artists

  • George Washington
  • Abraham Lincoln
  • Frederick Douglass
  • Ron Perranoski

Institutions

  • University Archives
  • PSA/DNA
  • Los Angeles Dodgers
  • Invaluable.com
  • Auctionzip.com
  • LiveAuctioneers.com

Sources