Lot 553
Carter, James Earl. 39th President of the United States, 1977-1981.
Typed Letter Signed ("Jimmy Carter"). One page, octavo, Washington D.C., October 31, 1979. On White House letterhead. To the Honorable Robert E. Bauman. Mounted in clear lucite frame with color photograph of the President and a pen commemorating the signing of the Panama Canal Act of 1979. Framed to an overall size of 9¼ x 20." Minor foxing, otherwise fine condition.
A wonderful collector's piece, this TLS and the accompanying pen represent one of the most important achievements of the Carter Presidency -- the negotiation, ratification and implementation of the Panama Canal Treaty. Carter's commitment to the Treaty was evident: Administration representatives made over 700 speeches in favor of ratification, Carter met personally with every Senator about the Treaty and a continual stream of media information kept the topic at the forefront of American debate. Carter's letter reads: "On September 27, 1979, I was pleased to sign into law H.R. 111, the Panama Cal Act of 1979, which implements the Panama Canal Treaty of 1977. This Act provides a framework in which the United States can exercise its rights to operate and defend the Canal in a manner consistent with our responsibilities and obligations under the Treaty. In appreciation for our crucial role in this landmark legislation, I want you to have the enclosed pen commemorating my signing of the Act. Please accept it along with my personal thanks…" The Congressional vote for the Panama Canal Act of 1979 was a triumph for Carter and his supporters, as well as the many people in and out of government who had worked to hand over the Canal to Panamanian control.
Estimated Value $3,000 - 3,500.
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| Realized $3,450 |
