Description:

Dewitt Clinton
New York, NY, May 31, 1813
War of 1812, Dewitt Clinton Pays $15K for NY Defense! PSA Mint 9. Incredible NY History!
Signed check

Dewitt Clinton signed check no. 258, New York, NY, May 31, 1813, and made payable to Thomas P. Mercein, the city comptroller $15,000 for "Defence." Boldly signed "Dewitt Clinton." A clean and boldly signed example, good condition, with a scratch on the slab. Measuring 4.5" x 7", encapsulated by PSA/DNA to the overall size of 6.5" x 10" and graded a Mint 9.

This check, dated May 31, 1813, and signed by DeWitt Clinton during his tenure as Mayor of New York City, authorized a $15,000 payment for "Defence" amid the ongoing War of 1812. At that time, New York was considered a critical and vulnerable target for British attack due to its prominence as a major port and economic center. As the war intensified, the city undertook significant efforts to fortify its defenses, mobilize local militia, and prepare for potential naval incursions. Clinton, a key figure in both local and national politics, played an active role in overseeing these preparations. The funds issued to City Comptroller Thomas R. Mercein were likely used for fortification projects, weapons procurement, or military readiness efforts approved by the Common Council. Though New York City ultimately avoided a direct assault, the city's leadership acted decisively to secure its safety, and this check reflects the urgency and seriousness with which officials responded to the wartime threat.

DeWitt Clinton was an American politician and naturalist. He served as a United States senator, as the mayor of New York City, and as the sixth governor of New York. In this last capacity, he was largely responsible for the construction of the Erie Canal.

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: 6.5" x 10".
  • Medium: Signed check

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July 16, 2025 10:00 AM EDT
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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $299 $20
$300 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $2,999 $200
$3,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 + $5,000