Civil War Naval Group: Charles H. Davis ALS & Joseph Smith Signed CDV

A delightful pair of items belonging to Civil War Rear Admirals Charles H. Davis and Joseph Smith.

The first is a 1p Autograph Letter Signed, measuring 5" x 8", Washington, D.C., dated March 5, 1863. Signed "C.H. Davis/R. Admiral" and addressed to Albert Dagget Esq. Writing from the Naval Department, Davis states that he is happy to comply with Dagget's request - likely inquiring about an autograph. The letter has been mounted to a thicker cardstock, measuring 8.25" x 9.75". With flattened mail folds, spotting, and a bold signature.

The second item in the group is a signed clipped carte-de-visite, measuring 2" x 2.375". A vignette portrait of Smith taken by Mathew Brady signed below the image "Jos. Smith." The card has been clipped into an oval shape, but still retains the Brady, New York backstamp on verso. Toning, soiling, and minor wear the edges. Overall very good.

Charles Henry Davis (1807-1877) was a rear admiral in the U.S. Navy and worked for the Coast Survey. During the Civil War, Davis commanded the Western Gunboat Flotilla (also known as the Mississippi River Squadron). He led his ships at the Battle of Memphis (June 6, 1862), successfully sinking or capturing seven of the eight Confederate ships. He was promoted to rear admiral on February 7, 1863. Joseph Smith (1790-1877) served in the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, and the Civil War. During the latter, he was a member of the Ironclad Board, overseeing the construction of the USS Monitor, the first U.S. Navy ironclad warship. He was promoted to rear admiral on July 16, 1862.

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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