Hubert H. Humphrey
38th Vice President of the United States · Politics - U.S. Government
Democratic Party / U.S. Senate (Minnesota)
Era
Late Career - circa 1970-1978
Item Type
Paper slip or index card
Condition
Excellent; the signature is bold and crisp with no visible fading, though the paper shows very minor horizontal shadows from lighting.
Rarity
Common; Humphrey was a prolific signer throughout his long career in public service.
Overall Assessment
A classic, high-quality example of a significent 20th-century American statesman. Ideal for a political or Minnesota-themed collection.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic (90% confidence)
Signature Style
Full name with middle initial 'H' stylized as a sharp upward peak connecting the names; legible cursive with distinct upward strokes.
Signature Characteristics
Strong verticality in the 'H's, a flattened 'ubert' string, and a trailing terminal stroke on the 'y' that often remains on the baseline or slightly below.
Ink & Medium
Early-generation black felt-tip marker or high-quality fiber-tip pen on white paper stock.
Item Description
A clean, white rectangular paper medium, likely an index card or cut signature, commonly used for in-person or requested mail autographs.
Estimated Value
$50 - $125 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
This matches late-career exemplars almost perfectly, specifically the way the names condensed into a more rhythmic, horizontal flow compared to his 1950s scripts.
Authentication Tips
Look for the sharp, needle-like peak of the 'H' and the fluid connection between 'Hubert' and the middle initial. Fake examples often lack the rapid, confident speed seen in the 'mm' and 'ph' of the surname.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA or JSA (James Spence Authentication). PSA/DNA is highly regarded for political figures.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the ink bleed into the paper fibers is consistent with 1970s marker technology.
Provenance Notes
Look for accompanying senate stationery or envelopes addressed from Washington D.C., as he was very active in responding to constituent mail.
Historical Context
Humphrey was a champion of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the primary liberal voice of the Democratic party for decades.
Market Trends
Stable; as a major mid-century political figure, there is a consistent base of collectors, though prices rarely spike.
Investment Potential
Low to Moderate; primarily a piece for historical appreciation rather than financial growth.
Similar Autographs
Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, or Walter Mondale.
Display & Preservation
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent the marker from turning purple/brown; use UV-shielded acrylic if framing.
Interesting Facts
Humphrey's signature became noticeably more 'horizontal' and fluid after his 1968 presidential loss as he returned to the Senate.