Lot 132

Invitation to the Dedication of the Washington Monument - 36 Years in the Making!

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Invitation to the Dedication of the Washington Monument - 36 Years in the Making!

Estimate: $200 - $300

Current Bid: $325

(12 Bids)

by University Archives
July 28, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
Live Auction
88 Danbury Road
Suite 2A
Wilton, CT, US 06897

George Washington
Washington, DC, January 14, 1885
Invitation to the Dedication of the Washington Monument - 36 Years in the Making!
Printed document

George Washington Monument invitation to the dedication ceremonies. Engraved cardstock, 6.375" x 9.375"; Washington, D.C.; January 14, 1885. Unengrossed invitation to the ceremonies of the dedication of the Washington Monument to be held on February 21, 1885. With printed signature of John Sherman, Chairman of the Commission. Includes small cardstock folder bearing inscription, "Compliments / T. C. Quantrill" in period ink. Gentle age-toning and small crease at bottom left. Verso has a 2-inch skinned area with trace mounting remnants.

Handsome design produced by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing featuring a bust portrait of George Washington at the center flanked by Columbia and Liberty. The Washington Monument is in the background haloed by a dramatic ray burst. The cornerstone of the Washington Monument was laid on July 4, 1848, during the presidency of James K. Polk. The majestic structure would take 36 years to complete. Members of the Commission, including Senators and Congressmen, are listed below, along with the name of the lead Engineer, Thomas Lincoln Casey.

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: 9.375" x 6.375"
  • Medium: Printed document

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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