Lot 257

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Description:

John Hancock Boldly 2x Signed Ornate Judicial Document for Relative of Witchcraft Judge, Unique

An ornate manuscript document twice signed by John Hancock (1737-1793) as Governor of Massachusetts, the first time at lower right recto, "John Hancock", and the second time at verso, "John Hancock", 1p, on vellum measuring 21.75" x 13", Boston, February 4, 1781. Countersigned at lower left recto by Secretary of State John Avery (1739-1806), "John Avery Secy". Statement of appearance at verso dated February 20, 1781. Intact 3" paper covered seal at upper left. File holes at top blank margin. Small area of paper loss at bottom, not affecting any text. Expected folds, dampstaining, foxing and toning, else in near fine condition with bold signatures.

Appointment of David Sewall (1735-1825) as Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts. Born in York, Massachusetts Bay Colony, Sewall was the first federal judge in the United States District Court for the District of Maine. He was nominated to the court by President George Washington on September 26, 1789 and served through January 9, 1818. At the time of his appointment, Sewell served as a Justice on the Superior Court of Massachusetts. 

David Sewall was a relative of Samuel Sewall (1652-1730), who was a judge in the Salem witch trials. David Sewell was perhaps most remarkable among the justices involved in the trials in that he later regretted his role, going so far as to call for a public day of prayer, fasting, and reparations.

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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February 1, 2023 11:00 AM EST
Wilton, CT, US

University Archives

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Bid Increments
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$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