Abraham Lincoln pocket watch to bring $60,000 at auction?

A pocket watch gifted by Abraham Lincoln is expected to highlight a June 8 sale

An Abraham Lincoln pocket watch is expected to provide the main draw at a June 8 auction in Denver.

Abe declares his "everlasting devotion" to the future first lady

The magnificent piece was presented by the president to his future wife and first lady of the United States, Mary Todd, while the couple were still courting. The pair spent a period of approximately four years courting before she eventually became Mary Todd Lincoln in 1842.

The elaborate 18k gold watch bears the inscription: "To Miss Mary Todd - A Token of my Everlasting Devotion and Affection - Abe Lincoln," and demonstrates Lincoln's desire for Todd's attention in the face of fierce competition from political rival, Stephen A Douglas, who had also vied for her love.

The watch will be sold in a lot accompanied by a letter of authenticity from the North Missouri Historical Society and a report providing proof of the inscription's age. It is estimated to sell of $30,000-60,000.

The lot will be followed by another spectacular timepiece, this time an 18k yellow gold Rolex wristwatch studded with diamonds in both the face and band. It is expected to bring $15,000-25,000.

Among the notable jewellery items in the sale will be a platinum engagement ring estimated to sell for $10,000-15,000. The ring boasts a huge 1.77 carat diamond with two baguette diamonds of 0.14 carats and a further two smaller diamonds at 0.05 carats.

A rare copy of Abraham Lincoln's Proclamation of Amnesty is expected to sell for $300,000 at another auction later this month, demonstrating the popularity of the iconic president's memorabilia.

Paul Fraser Collectibles is delighted to offer presidential collectors the chance to own fragments of wallpaper from the bedroom of the only home Lincoln ever owned. With fantastic provenance, the wallpaper provides a fascinating and unique collectible from one of America's most loved presidents at great value.

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Images: Morphy Auctions