An autographed photograph of Abraham Lincoln has been sold at auction for $149,000 (approximately R$ 800,000) following its discovery tucked away in an antique desk. The item was handled by RR Auction, which confirmed that the portrait had been quietly preserved by the same family for nearly a century before its recent rediscovery.
The image, known as the "Penny Profile," depicts Lincoln in profile facing right and was originally printed by Brady's National Photographic Portrait Galleries, a prominent studio operating in New York and Washington during the 19th century. This specific photograph is historically significant because it served as the primary source for Victor David Brenner's design of the one-cent coin featuring the president's face. During the same session, another portrait by photographer Mathew Brady was also sold, which later became the basis for the image on the five-dollar bill.
According to RR Auction, historical accounts indicate that this signed photograph was one of six donated by Lincoln to support the Westford Soldiers' Aid Society in Massachusetts. Unable to provide direct federal funds at the time, the former president offered his autographed photos to be sold at a charity event in December 1864 to assist local Union soldiers' families.
It is believed that the photo was originally acquired by Charles G. Sargent, a civic leader in Westford, and later passed down to his son, Allan C. Sargent, a noted preservationist involved in various historical and patriotic organizations. The portrait remained hidden within the family for about 100 years until it was found inside an old desk; its true value was only revealed when a newspaper clipping fell from behind the frame's backing.
Sources: CNN Brasil.