James K. Polk Signed United States Certificate of Merit and Etching. Army of the United States Certificate of Merit issued to Private Jacob Fritshe of Company K. of the 2nd Regiment of Dragoons "having distinguished himself in the service of the United States, on the eighteenth day of April, 1847, in the Battle of Cerro Gordo, on the recommendation of Colonel W. S. Harvey, the Commanding Officer of his Regiment." The Certificate of Merit entitled Fritshe to the additional pay at the rate of two dollars per month. Signed by Secretary of War William L. Marcy and United States President James K. Polk on November 25th 1848, in brown ink across bottom. Inscribed "No. 62. Recorded Adjt General’s Office Nov. 25, 1848." with two illegible signatures, likely Roger Jones, Adjutant General during this time (1825-1852), in brown and red ink, top left. Also included is an etching of Polk, signed "J. Reich" under image, lower left. Housed in wooden frame with brown matte. Certificate – 9 1/2" H x 16" W. Etching: Sight – 4 1/2" H x 3 1/2" W. Framed – 17 3/4"H x 29" W. CONDITION: Overall excellent condition. Minor spots and marks on surface of certificate.