PRESIDENT HAYES SIGNS A VERY LARGE PHOTOGRAPH OF HIS WIFE RUTHERFORD B. HAYES (1822-1893). Hayes was the Nineteenth President and a Union general during the Civil War. During his Presidency, he ended Reconstruction, began civil service reform, and restored financial confidence after the Panic of 1873. PS. 7 ½” x 13”. No date [circa 1877]. No place [likely Washington, DC]. A very large photograph of First Lady Lucy Hayes inscribed on the lower margin by the President, “To Miss Alberta Manning Houghton, with kindest regards, Rutherford B. Hayes”. The photograph has an 1877 imprinted date and a Sarony imprint; based on the 1877 date, it was probably signed as President. Houghton was, like Lucy Hayes, likely involved in the women’s suffrage and temperance movements. Hayes signed with his full name (not his usual “R.B. Hayes”) and the purple ink is light but legible. The overall condition is fine.

Biblio’s Book Conditions

• As New
  The book is pristine and free of any defects, in the same condition as when it was first newly published.
• Fine (F)
  A book in fine condition exhibits no flaws. A fine condition book closely approaches As New condition, but may lack the crispness of an uncirculated, unopened volume.
• Near Fine (NrFine or NF)
  Almost perfect, but not quite fine. Any defect outside of shelf-wear should be noted.
• Very Good (VG)
  A used book that does show some small signs of wear - but no tears - on either binding or paper. Very good items should not have writing or highlighting.
• Good (G or Gd.)
  The average used and worn book that has all pages or leaves present. ‘Good’ items often include writing and highlighting and may be ex-library. Any defects should be noted. The oft-repeated aphorism in the book collecting world is “good isn’t very good.”
• Fair
  It is best to assume that a “fair” book is in rough shape but still readable.
• Poor (P)
  A book with significant wear and faults. A poor condition book can still make a good reading copy but is generally not collectible unless the item is very scarce. Any missing pages must be specifically noted.