Old Carved Abe Lincoln Letter Opener enamel canisters became the first fraternal organization

became the first fraternal organization to receive a charter under an act of the US Congress after careful investigation by President Abraham Lincoln

as it needs nothing other than to hang up somewhere to be admired

and I believe '04 for 2004

It has seen some use

Old Carved Abe Lincoln Letter Opener enamel canisters became the first fraternal organizationAnother little piece of Americana: I do believe the carved (whittled) head on this old folk art letter opener was meant to represent Abe Lincoln, achieved especially well in profile (hard not to recognize that jawline!) And I believe it is a pretty old carving, perhaps done while Lincoln was still a lived memory. Great condition, great patina, very useful still as a letter opener if desired. 7 1 8" l x 1 1 8" w x 7 8" d.