Few images are as readily evoked on Union patriotic covers as that of the "Father of Our Country", George Washington. Though both sides in the war could rightly lay claim to the legacy of Washington, the Union was particularly keen to employ his image as a means of stirring patriotic fervor.

 

This particular cover is in excellent condition, with moderate mounting residue on the back flap. You will find this on most all period covers because people were very eager to collect them and display them in albums, even during the war. In fact, mounting residue is one of several indicators that the cover dates way back and is not a modern reprint.

 

Of course, that is hardly a question with this specimen.  The cover is a steel engraving of Washington, professionally hand-colored by the printer. This hand-tinting of patriotic images was particularly common (and desirable); and it was often done by Magnus. These are especially popular, not only because of their evocative historical character, but because they possess tremendous eye-appeal.  A great gift -- either for the Civil War collector or for the fan of President Washington.