Description:

Edward, Duke of Windsor
n.p., n.d.
Edward, Duke of Windsor PSA GEM MT 10 Signed Abdication Radio Address, Souvenir Typescript
DS

A typed souvenir transcript of the abdication speech/farewell address signed by the former King of England Edward VIII, then Duke of Windsor (1894-1972), as "Edward / Duke of Windsor" at center left. N.d., n.p. Encapsulated and PSA/DNA certified and graded GEM MT 10. On watermarked paper. Expected wear including flattened transmittal folds. A small area of inky water spots is found far away from the signature. Else near fine. The page measures 8.25" x 11" while the slab measures 9.625" x 13.125" x .325." Provenance: Ex-Charles Hamilton, 1970.

Edward VIII had met American socialite Wallis Simpson in 1931, when he was still Prince of Wales. After inheriting the British throne in January 1936, Edward faced an incredibly difficult decision that pitted his personal life against his royal obligations. The stance of sitting British leadership, canon law of the Church of England, and longstanding cultural traditions dictated that Edward could not marry Simpson and keep his crown; thus, a choice had to be made. Edward VIII signed the official Instrument of Abdication on December 10, 1936, in front of his three brothers, including his successor, the future George VI.

The following day, on December 11, 1936, the "Act of Parliament: His Majesty's Declaration of Abdication Act of 1936" was introduced and immediately passed. That evening, the former king read a statement to the British public through a BBC radio broadcast. This souvenir typescript represents a redacted version of the abdicated king's farewell address:

It reads in part:

"At long last I am able to say a few words of my own. I have never wanted to withhold anything, but until now it has not been constitutionally possible for me to speak.

I have found it impossible to carry the heavy burden of responsibility and to discharge my duties as King as I would wish to do without the help and support of the woman I love.

I now quit altogether public affairs and I lay down my burden.

It may be some time before I return to my native land, but I shall always follow the fortunes of the British race and empire with profound interest and if, at any time in the future, I can be found of service to His Majesty in a private station I shall not fail.

And now we shall all have a new King. I wish him and you, his people, happiness and prosperity with all my heart…"

The former king was granted the honorary title of the Duke of Windsor on December 12th, and he departed England for Austria the same day. He married Wallis Simpson six months later, on June 3, 1937, in France.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: slabbed: 9.625" x 13.125" x .325"
  • Medium: DS

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