Description:

Martin Van Buren
Kinderhook, NY, February 3, [1849]
Martin Van Buren Free Frank
Free Frank

Martin Van Buren (1782-1862). Free frank signed "M. Van Buren", 4.5" x 3.25", Kinderhook, NY, February 3. The date from the post stamp is faint and does not show a year but is likely 1849. Some uneven edges and a few scattered spots of discoloration but Van Buren's signature remains bold.

Van Buren lived at Lindenwald after his first and only presidential term ended in 1841, and during his two subsequent bids for the White House in 1844 and 1848. Van Buren would live at Lindenwald as a gentleman-farmer until his death in 1862. The nucleus of the 137-acre estate dotted with American linden trees was a Georgian mansion that Van Buren had renovated to resemble an Italianate villa complete with a 4-storey bell tower. The 36-room house with its red rooflines, yellow brick façade, and dark brown trim can still be visited today. The Martin Van Buren National Historic Site is managed by the National Park Service.

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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  • Dimensions: 4.5" x 3.25"
  • Medium: Free Frank

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May 6, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
Wilton, CT, US

University Archives

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $299 $20
$300 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $2,999 $200
$3,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 + $5,000