WORCESTER - A sword that was once in the hands of the 16th President of the United States was up for auction in Worcester on Thursday. 

Central Mass. Auctions got the historic piece from a consignor who was handling an estate. President Abraham Lincoln presented this sword in 1862.

"It's really exciting. I like dealing with pieces of history," said Wayne Tuiskala, auctioneer with Central Mass. Auctions. "We've been fortunate enough to sell Elliot Ness' credentials and some other historic pieces. So, it's always nice when something like that comes through. 

The inscription reads "Presented by Abraham Lincoln to First Lieutenant John W. Jones."

Tuiskala said pieces like this don't come through often. "Some historic things do end up here once a year, but probably nothing of that magnitude."

Frank and Martha Jordan came from Charlton to get a look at the sword. The two self-proclaimed Lincoln fans were thrilled to touch a piece of history. 

Frank Jordan said, "Anything Lincoln is just phenomenal. I'm just so happy Worcester could get something like this. It's amazing that it's here. I can't believe it. Worcester stepped up." 

While this is a one of a kind piece, it does have some competition. The auction also has the first issue of the Incredible Hulk, which is expected to go for a high price. 

Tuiskala is hoping the two items get people in the door. "It's something that will draw people from hopefully beyond New England to the auction," Tuiskala said. 

Central Mass. Auctions was expecting a larger crowd than usual Thurday night.