King of Great Britain and Ireland, and Hanover (1765-1837) from 1830 to 1837, he earned the sobriquet 'Sailor King' for his youthful service in the Royal Navy. Partly-printed vellum DS, signed “William R,” one page, 13 x 9, October 1, 1830. King William IV appoints Henry Bowden Esq. as “Lieutenant and Captain” in the Third Regiment of Foot Guards (subsequently the Scots Guards) “commanded by our dear cousin His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester K.G. Field Marshal of our forces and to take rank in our army from the 14th November 1826." The document is signed at St. James’ on 1st October 1830 and represents the purchase of a Captaincy. The royal seal and duty stamp affixed to the upper left remain fully intact. Framed to an overall size of 14.75 x 10.5. In fine condition.
William was the third son of George III and succeeded his elder brother George IV, becoming the last king and penultimate monarch of Britain's House of Hanover. He served in the Royal Navy, spending considerable time in North America and the Caribbean. He was created Duke of Clarence and St. Andrews in 1789 and appointed as Britain's first Lord High Admiral since 1709 in 1827. He inherited the throne when he was 64 years old. His reign saw the abolishment of slavery throughout the British Empire. William was succeeded to the British throne by his niece Victoria; and in Hanover by his brother Ernest Augustus.
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