Winter Discovery Auction Nov 14
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/14/2013
| Less than one month following the signing of the Declaration of Independence, President of the Continental Congress John Hancock appoints an ensign into the Army of the United Colonies "raised for the defence of American Liberty, and for repelling every hostile Invasion thereof" |
| HANCOCK, JOHN. 1737-1793. Merchant, statesman and prominent patriot of the American Revolution. l776-dated Document Signed as President of the Continental Congress, One page, approx. 10 in. x 8 5/8 in., Philadelphia, dated August 26, 1776. |
| The partly-printed document states (in part): |
| The Delegates of the United Colonies ... to Benjamin Bourn, Gentleman, Greeting. We reposing especial Trust and Confidence in your Patriotism, Valour, Conduct and Fidelity, do by these presents, constitute and appoint you to be Ensign of the Eleventh Company in the Second Regiment of the Brigade raised by the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, which has been taken into Continental Pay, and is now part of the Army of the United Colonies raised for the defence of American Liberty, and for repelling every hostile Invasion thereof. |
| This commission to continue in Force until revoked by this or a future Congress. Dated the Twenty-sixth day of August, 1776. By Order of the Congress [signed] John Hancock President |
| Attest. [signed] Chas. Thomson Secy. |
Although the wording of the Declaration of Independence was approved on July 4, the date of its signing has been disputed. Most historians have concluded that it was signed nearly a month after its adoption, on August 2, 1776, and not on July 4 as is commonly believed. A wonderful Hancock document signed less than one month following the signing of the most famous document in American history. Exhibits some toning with separations at the folds which has been expertly mended; otherwise, in fine condition.
John Hancock 1776 Signed Document
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