Rare 1868 Louisiana Reconstruction Lithograph Appraised at $2,500: A Powerful Civil Rights Artifact
An Extraordinary Piece of Reconstruction-Era History
At DJR Authentication, we recently had the honor of reviewing an extraordinary historical artifact through our $25 Online Fast Opinion service — an original 19th-century lithograph titled Extract from the Reconstructed Constitution of the State of Louisiana.
This rare and visually striking piece captures a powerful moment in American Reconstruction-era history, spotlighting the rise of African American political leadership following the Civil War.
What Makes This Lithograph So Special
The lithograph features portraits of 29 African American delegates and legislators, all participants in the pivotal Louisiana Constitutional Convention of 1868. These men helped reshape the political and civil rights landscape of the post-war South. At the center is a commanding image of Lieutenant Governor Oscar James Dunn (O.J. Dunn) — the first African American to serve as a lieutenant governor in U.S. history.
Framed by patriotic iconography including flags, scrollwork, and an American eagle, the lithograph also includes text excerpts from the 1868 Louisiana Constitution, notably passages affirming civil rights and education access. These constitutional updates marked a turning point in the fight for Black suffrage, civil liberties, and Reconstruction reforms.
Appraised Value: $1,000–$2,500
Our preliminary appraisal places the lithograph’s value in the $1,000–$2,500 range, depending on condition and market interest. Original examples of this item are extremely scarce and highly sought after by collectors of:
✓ Black Americana
✓ Civil Rights Memorabilia
✓ Reconstruction-Era Artifacts
✓ 19th-Century Lithographs and Political Prints
✓ African American History Collectibles
Condition plays a major role in determining value. This example shows age toning, foxing, and edge wear, which are typical for 150-year-old paper ephemera, but remains intact with strong legibility and artwork.
The Historical Significance
The Louisiana Constitutional Convention of 1868 was one of the most progressive political events in American history at the time. For the first time, Black men held public office, wrote laws, and shaped policy — all in the shadow of the Civil War’s aftermath. This lithograph visually documents that transformation.
Among the figures shown are:
O.J. Dunn – Lt. Governor and Reconstruction leader
Emancipated legislators and community leaders
Delegates who advocated for education, voting rights, and equal protection
It is not just a collectible — it’s a primary source, a visual record of Black empowerment, and a tribute to the resilience and leadership of a once-enslaved population asserting their rightful place in democracy.
Why Pieces Like This Matter Today
In a world of mass reproduction and digital archives, original documents and lithographs from the Reconstruction era serve as powerful reminders of where we’ve been — and how far we’ve come. Institutions, museums, and private collectors are actively preserving these items to ensure that this critical period in African American and American history is never forgotten.
Do You Own Something Similar?
Whether you’ve inherited a vintage print, a Civil War relic, or something you just picked up at an estate sale, you might be holding more than a decorative antique — you could be holding a valuable piece of American history.
At DJR Authentication, we make it simple and affordable to get expert feedback:
✓ $25 Fast Opinion – Great for value or authenticity insights
✓ $125 Full Appraisal – Includes detailed analysis, comps, and a professional report for insurance, resale, or documentation
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