Description:

John Hancock
Boston, MA, August 28, 1781
John Hancock Docketed Superb Prisoner Exchange Letter, JSA Certified
Docket

John Hancock (1737-1793). A manuscript letter penned by John Avery (1739-1806) as secretary of the commonwealth of Massachusetts, 1p, on laid paper measuring 6.25" x 8", Boston, August 28, 1781. With docketing at verso in Hancock's hand, "To the Navy Board / Aug'st 1781." Expected folds and creases with a tiny separation at left of upper fold. Unevenly cut right edge. Light toning and scattered foxing. Pencil notations from a former collector at verso. Overall, in near fine condition. Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity by JSA.

Sold at Early American for over $3,000 in their 2006 auction. Ex-Sigety, Ex-Christie's.

From Council Chambers to the Navy Board concerning a prisoner exchange. in full:

"The Great Kindness and Humanity manifested by Admiral Edwards to the Inhabitants of this & others of the united States who have been captured by the Enemy has induced the Council to advice to the Exchange of Capt. Sampson Edwards Pet. Commander of the Atalanta Sloop of War in pursuance of said Advice which you have herewith enclosed I would recommend said Capt. Edwards for this purpose not doubting that the same Principles of Humanity which even actuated the Honorable Navy Board, will cause the Exchange to be made for an Officer of equal Rank and to permit the said Capt. Edwards to return to Newfoundland by the Cartel destined for that Place."

An important letter from Hancock's personal retained files mentioning the "Atalanta" which was one of the larger class of ship-rigged sloops introduced in the 1760s. She carried 16 guns, as well as a number of swivel guns, on the quarterdeck and was captured by the American 36 gun ship "Alliance" in 1781.

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: JSA # Z32832
  • Dimensions: 6.25" x 8"
  • Medium: Docket

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