Description:

Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy received a massive influx of sympathy mail from around the world. To acknowledge these millions of letters, the White House sent out official condolence acknowledgement cards along with matching black-bordered transmittal envelopes. The standard acknowledgement card features a heavy cream cardstock featuring an embossed presidential crest or coat of arms at the top. The classic script text reads: "Mrs. Kennedy is deeply appreciative of your sympathy and grateful for your thoughtfulness". • The matching envelope is recognized by its stark mourning design, typically framed by a thin black or dark border. The top right corner includes a printed facsimile of Jacqueline Kennedy's signature, which served as franked official mail bypass ("Postage and Fees Paid") so they could be sent out efficiently without stamps. • Because over 800,000 condolence letters arrived within just the first few weeks, a dedicated staff of volunteers and administrative aides handled the addressing and mailing of these cards well into 1964. While the vast majority feature typed or secretary-written addresses, rare examples contain personal notations from the First Lady herself. Please ask specific questions on details, condition, and shipping prior to bidding, ALL ITEMS ARE SOLD AS IS, and the bidder will be responsible for payment. We box and ship what we can to keep costs low, and use USPS and UPS. Large items, extremely fragile, and high value items will be packed by UPS. Quotes available on request

  • Dimensions: 3-3/8" x 5-3/8" card
  • Condition: Very Good Condition

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Auction House will ship Worldwide, at Buyer's Expense. PLEASE CONTACT PRIOR TO BIDDING IF YOU WOULD LIKE A SHIPPING QUOTE!! Allow a 24 hour period for quotes. Shipping quotes are figured before invoices are sent out. Multiple shipping companies (USPS, UPS, Fedex, Greyhound, etc.) will be looked into for the best rate. Large paintings and other large items may be packed by a third party.

October 19, 2026 5:00 PM EDT
Canandaigua, NY, US

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $49 $5
$50 $99 $5
$100 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $9,999 $250
$10,000 + $500