Lot #75

Andrew Jackson

Description

As America edges toward a financial crisis, Old Hickory sets his sights on the high seas and a patent for ship’s thimbles

Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 11.5 x 15.5, July 1, 1836. A patent issued to Prentice White for “a new and useful improvement in the Machine for making Ship’s Thimbles which improvements he states has not been known or used before his application; hath made oath that he does verily believe that he is the true inventor or discoverer of the said improvement; hath paid into the treasury of the United States the sum of thirty dollars.” Boldly signed at the conclusion by Jackson, whose signature measures an impressive six inches long, and countersigned by Secretary of State John Forsythe and Attorney General Benjamin Butler. Archivally double matted and framed with a seated portrait and a biographical plaque, to an overall size of 29.5 x 25.25. In fine condition, with light intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, and some scattered light toning and soiling. The white paper seal is lightly toned and worn, but intact, and retains its original green ribbon.

Accompanied by White’s lengthy handwritten description of the improvement, on both sides of three 11 x 13.75 vellum sheets, beginning: “Be it known that I Prentice White of Yarmouth in the county of Barnstable and State of Massachusetts Blacksmith, have invented a new and useful improvement in the machinery for making ships thimbles, and that the following is a full and exact description of the construction and operation of the machine as invented or improved by me viz: It consists of a bench, horned anvil, and hammer or sledge with appurtenances.” The sheets have previous storage folds, and scattered toning, but are in otherwise fine condition. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.

Auction Info

• Auction Title:
• Dates: #358 - Ended June 16, 2010

This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
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