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Lot #221
George Washington

CHECKS AND BALANCES: WASHINGTON appoints Alexander Hamilton’s former secretary as Comptroller of the Treasury

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Description

CHECKS AND BALANCES: WASHINGTON appoints Alexander Hamilton’s former secretary as Comptroller of the Treasury

Manuscript DS as president, signed “Go: Washington,” one page, 12.5 x 7.75, April 10, 1795. An appointment for Henry Kuhl of Philadelphia as Comptroller of the Treasury. Kuhl, who had previously served as secretary to Alexander Hamilton, penned the copy of Hamilton’s “Opinion on the Constitutionality of the Bill for Establishing a National Bank” that was presented to Washington for his consideration in 1791. Though Jefferson, Madison, and Randolph argued against the measure, Hamilton’s arguments in favor of the establishment of a national bank convinced Washington to sign the bill into law on April 25, 1791. The original manuscript of the “Opinion,” as written in Kuhl’s hand and signed by Hamilton, sold at Sotheby’s in 1969. Three vertical folds (one passing through last name), some light creases and wrinkles, and a touch of mild soiling and edge toning, otherwise fine condition. The signature is clear, dark, and otherwise unaffected. One of the handsomest Washington items we have ever offered! Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #339 - Ended November 12, 2008