LOS ANGELES, CA.- Nate D. Sanders Auctions sold on November 30th an exceptionally rare presidential pardon signed by President John F. Kennedy and Attorney General Robert Kennedy for $12,500. Dated November 14, 1963, a mere eight days before the tragic assassination of President Kennedy, this extraordinary document is a testament to its historical significance and scarcity.

Presidential pardons signed by John F. Kennedy are notoriously rare, as pardons are mostly issued at the conclusion of a President's term. Since JFK did not serve his full term, the number of pardons he issued were few. In the last half-century, only six others have come to auction. This particular document holds additional significance as it represents one of the final official acts of President Kennedy, making it a poignant piece of American history.

The pardon is prominently adorned with the bold signatures of both John F. Kennedy and Robert Kennedy, placed next to the gold foil Department of Justice seal. This remarkable document grants clemency to Ted E. Barto of Minneapolis, who had been convicted of violating U.S. Code Title 18, Section 287, related to "false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims." Barto's offense involved submitting false claims to the Veterans Administration concerning flights charged to the U.S. government for GI flying lessons. Unaware of the fraud committed by the school's owners, Barto sought a pardon and was granted a full and unconditional pardon.

This unique artifact, consigned by the family of Ted Barto, has never before been offered at auction, adding to its allure and desirability among collectors and historians.

"We were honored to present this historic presidential pardon, a document that not only reflects a moment in legal history but also stands as one of the last official acts of President John F. Kennedy," said auction owner Nate Sanders. “The rarity of a pardon signed by both JFK and RFK, coupled with its poignant timing, made this an extraordinary piece for collectors and history enthusiasts."