The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Signatories · Allied leaders
Dwight D. Eisenhower (1890–1969): Signature, Documents and Historical Profile
| Born | 14 October 1890, Denison, Texas |
|---|---|
| Died | 28 March 1969, Washington, D.C. |
| Key offices | Supreme Commander, Allied Expeditionary Force (from 24 December 1943); NATO Supreme Commander (1951); 34th President of the United States (1953–1961) |
| Documents bearing his name | Military and presidential documents, letters, signed photographs and books |
| In the collection | No pieces currently available |
Dwight D. Eisenhower commanded the Allied invasion of Europe and later served two terms as President. His signatures span his military command, his presidency and his retirement.
Who Was Dwight D. Eisenhower?
Eisenhower was born in Denison, Texas, in 1890. He was appointed Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force on 24 December 1943 and ordered the Normandy landings on 6 June 1944. He became NATO’s first Supreme Commander in 1951 and was President from 1953 to 1961.
What Documents Bear Eisenhower’s Signature?
Heads of government and state rarely signed everything that went out in their name. Secretaries, signing machines and printed or stamped signatures were used for routine replies, so a typed letter is not automatically hand-signed. His wartime signatures appear on military documents and letters; presidential and post-presidential signatures on letters, photographs and books. See original signature or facsimile.
What Should Collectors Watch For?
- Separate wartime, presidential and later signatures.
- Be alert to secretarial signatures.
- D-Day-related items need strong provenance.
Later Life
Eisenhower died in Washington on 28 March 1969.
Collector’s Note
Eisenhower items linked to D-Day are some of the most sought after of the war. The more famous the moment, the more I insist on provenance.
Related Entries and Pieces
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Frequently Asked Questions
When did Eisenhower become Supreme Commander?
He was appointed on 24 December 1943.
When was Eisenhower President?
From 1953 to 1961.
Did Eisenhower order D-Day?
Yes, the Normandy landings of 6 June 1944.
Historical Responsibility Notice: this entry documents historical figures and artefacts for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology.
References & Further Reading
- Encyclopaedia Britannica, Dwight D. Eisenhower.