Description:

Edward VIII, Duke of Windsor
Fort Belvedere, Surrey, England, December 10, 1936
Edward VIII, Duke of Windsor Signed Instrument of Abdication, PSA Gem Mint 10!
TDS

Edward VIII (1894-1972). Typed Document Signed, "Edward / Duke of Windsor," 1p, on ivory marbled stationery measuring 6.5" x 9.5", no place, no date. Blank verso. Certified, graded an outstanding GEM MT 10, and encapsulated by PSA/DNA to an overall size of 9.75" x 12.5". In fine condition and very boldly signed. Ex-Charles Hamilton, 1970.

A magnificent presentation of Edward VIII, Duke of Windsor's bold signature on this Instrument of Abdication, a souvenir copy obviously done as a favor for someone at a later date. This is one of the most important events in British history - and while these do exist on the market, they have become increasingly rare - and in this condition, nearly unobtainable.

In full: "I, Edward the Eighth, of Great Britain, Ireland, and the British Dominions beyond the Seas, King, Emperor of India, do hereby declare My irrevocable determination to renounce the Throne for Myself and for My descendants, and My desire that effect should be given to this Instrument of Abdication immediately. In token whereof I have hereunto set My hand this tenth day of December, nineteen hundred and thirty six in the presence of the witnesses whose signatures are subscribed. / Signed at Fort Belvedere in the presence of Albert / Henry / George."

Edward's intention to marry Wallis Simpson (1896-1986), the divorced American socialite, caused a British constitutional crisis. Rather than give up his wife-to-be, Edward decided to abdicate. His "Instrument of Abdication" was later submitted to the British House of Parliament and ratified as His Majesty's Declaration of Abdication Act of 1936.

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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  • Provenance: PSA: 85568176
  • Dimensions: 9.75" x 12.5"
  • Medium: TDS

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