This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/17/2021
Offered are three Presidential Christmas cards used by President and Mrs. John F. Kennedy. Included are both versions of the 1961 card sent domestically and the photographic 1962 card. In 1961, Hallmark produced a design similar to the ones from Eisenhower’s presidency with a wide green silk screen banner on a smooth white stock accompanied by the official Presidential Seal and the sentiment “Season’s Greetings 1961” engraved in gold. The imprint reads: “With Wishes for a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.” The President ordered 800 official Christmas cards from Hallmark. Additionally, he ordered other cards without the direct Christmas reference, that simple read: "The President and Mrs. Kennedy extend Season's Greetings and best wishes for the New Year." Both versions are included hear. There was another version with a simple New Year's message that is assumed to be for other world leaders.
In 1962, the official White House Christmas cards were a bit of a departure from years past. Instead of a formal design featuring a “Season’s Greetings” sentiment and the Presidential Seal, the official Presidential Christmas cards from 1962 featured a photograph taken by Presidential Photographer Cecil Stoughton of a snow-covered White House lawn. With the executive mansion in the background, the foreground depicted Mrs. Kennedy sitting with John Jr. in a one-horse open sleigh being led by Caroline’s pony, Macaroni. The message on the inside reads: "Christmas Greetings and Best Wishes for a Happy New Year."
All three cards measure 5 7/8 x 6 7/8 inches, and present with mild toning and minor scuffing. Near Mint condition overall.