George H.W. Bush
41st President of the United States · Politics - U.S. Presidents
Republican Party / United States Government
Era
Circa 1988 - Early Presidency
Item Type
Limited edition lithograph / Art print
Condition
Excellent; the signature is bold with no visible fading, though the print shows minor tan toning from age
Rarity
Moderate; while a frequent signer, this specific event-related item is rare through limited production (Numbered 289/500)
Overall Assessment
A high-quality, authentic specimen on a unique piece of political/sporting memorabilia
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic; confidence level 95%
Signature Style
Vertical and compressed cursive scrawl with a sharp upward slant and long descending tail
Signature Characteristics
Fluid motion, heavy downward pressure at the start of letters, and a consistent 75-degree upward angle
Ink & Medium
Black fiber-tip marker (Sharpie-style) on heavy paper stock
Item Description
Governor Mickelson's South Dakota Invitational Hunt 'Forever Friends' print commemorating the October 21-22, 1988 event
Estimated Value
$400 - $650 USD (Authenticated)
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches high-quality 1980s examples before the onset of age-related tremor seen in his later years
Authentication Tips
Look for the characteristic 'G' that loops into the 'H' and the sharp verticality of the 'B' in Bush
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA or JSA (James Spence Authentication)
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the flow is natural without hesitation marks
Provenance Notes
Print is numbered 289/500 which provides a traceable limited edition history to the 1988 hunt
Historical Context
Signed around the time of his 1988 election victory, highlighting his relationship with state governors and the outdoors
Market Trends
Presidential autographs remain blue-chip investments, particularly on items relating to personal hobbies like hunting or sports
Investment Potential
Strong; 41st President autographs are foundational for any U.S. Presidential collection
Similar Autographs
George W. Bush, Dan Quayle, Ronald Reagan
Display & Preservation
Requires UV-protective glass and acid-free mounting to prevent further paper yellowing
Interesting Facts
Bush was known for 'speed-signing' during his presidency, leading to the highly vertical scrawl seen here