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Lot #20
Martin Luther: Frederick III the Wise, Elector of Saxony

Rare 1514 letter by the protector of Martin Luther

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Estimate: $1000+
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Description

Rare 1514 letter by the protector of Martin Luther

Elector of Saxony from 1486 to 1525, who is mostly remembered for the worldly protection of his subject Martin Luther. As one of Luther's most powerful early defenders, Frederick successfully protected him from the Holy Roman Emperor, the Pope, and other hostile figures. He secured Luther's safe passage to and from the Diet of Worms, and subsequently staged Luther's abduction to ensure his return to Wittenberg. A lifelong Roman Catholic, Frederick's actions were borne not out of religious conviction but from his personal belief in a fair trial and the rule of law; he is said to have converted to Lutheranism on his deathbed. Extremely rare ALS in German, one page, 8 x 12, 1514. Untranslated handwritten letter by Frederick the Wise. In very good to fine condition, with a few small edge tears, light soiling, and mounting remnants along a reverse edge.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts Ft. Sports Cards
  • Dates: #629 - Ended February 09, 2022





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