Office of Discount & Deposit check, 6 x 2.25, filled out and signed by Jefferson as president, “Th: Jefferson,” payable to Doctor Charles Worthington for $60.75, February 6, 1809. Double-matted and framed with an engraved portrait. In fine condition.
Dr. Worthington attended the White House on January 3 to deliver a smallpox vaccine to Jefferson, which the president sent on to his daughter Martha for use in inoculating her children against the deadly disease. The bill and receipt are held in the Library of Congress with Jefferson’s papers. Interestingly, Jefferson had embraced the concepts of smallpox vaccination in its dangerous infancy and early experimental stages. He had himself inoculated in the 1760s when it was still discouraged, and by 1801 he had directed the inoculation of Monticello slaves, family members, and some of his neighbors amounting to about two hundred people.
An exceptionally rare piece, and only the second full Jefferson check we’ve ever offered. The prior one, written as secretary of state, reached $17,783; this example, beautifully presented and in fabulous condition, is superior...and as president. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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