Rare manuscript legal document in English, measuring 5.5" x 8", boldly signed at the conclusion by Sir Edward Coke (1552–1634), legendary English jurist, Member of Parliament, Speaker of the House of Commons, Attorney General under Elizabeth I, and Chief Justice under James I. The lengthy handwritten legal text, penned in a fine secretary hand, reflects Coke’s legal oversight and closes with his characteristic “Edw: Coke” signature at bottom.
Accompanied by a period portrait engraving of Coke in formal robes of state, measuring 10.5" x 12", showing him wearing the elaborate chain of office and holding a legal volume.
The document shows expected age toning and folds, with some expert reinforcement on verso; signature strong and clear. The portrait print displays even toning and light edge wear.
Sir Edward Coke (1 February 1552 – 3 September 1634) was an English barrister, judge, and politician. He is often considered the greatest jurist of the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras.
This letter dates from when Sir Edward Coke (1552–1634) was Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas — roughly 1606–1613 — before becoming Chief Justice of the King’s Bench. Coke has officially referred the case to Sir Nathaniel Bacon — a respected local justice and half-brother to the philosopher Francis Bacon — to investigate and either settle the case or certify back who is at fault.
During this period, Coke was England’s most powerful common-law judge and an outspoken defender of the rule of law against arbitrary power. His legal opinions laid the foundations of modern due process, habeas corpus, and limits on royal authority.
The address line confirms this timing:
“To the right honorable Sir Edward Coke Knight, Lord Chief Justice of his Majestie’s Court of Common Pleas.”
Here is a translation in part :
To the right honorable Sir Edward Coke Knight
Lord Cheife Justice of his Majestie’s Court of Common Pleas.
Humbly sheweth unto your Lordship the humble complaint of
Thomas Maddocks of Doddingworth in the Countie of Suffolke yeoman..............
Humbly requesting your Lordship would be pleased to refer
the hearing of this cause to some of his Majestie’s Justices,
there nigh inhabiting, they to end the same or else to certifie
in whom the default is, that the party wronged may be released,
and your Honour no further troubled; and he (as in duty he is
bounden) will continually pray to God for the prosperous estate.
It is referred to Sr. Nathaniel Bacon
By his good intents to end or certifie
(signed)
Edw: Coke
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