DS as president of the Society of the Cincinnati, one page, 20 x 14, October 31, 1785. A Society of the Cincinnati membership certificate stating that 'Henry D. Purcell Esq. is a member of the Society of the Cincinnati instituted by the officers of the American Army at the Period of its Dissolution, as well to commemorate the great Event which gave Independence to North America as for the laudable purpose of laying down in Peace arms assumed for Public Defense.' Signed at the bottom in ink, 'Go. Washington.' Countersigned by Henry Knox as secretary. In very good condition, with scattered light creasing, expected document folds, with two lightly through Washington signature, some fading to ink in filled in portions of document as well as Knox's signature and moderate overall soiling. Washington's signature is well-penned and very legible. This handsome document is enhanced by the engravings of Liberty in the guise of a beautiful woman being guarded by a ferocious lion, an eagle grasping thunderbolts in its talons, a soldier carrying the American flag and several many-masted sailing ships. The Society of the Cincinnati documents are widely considered among the most attractive presidential documents ever produced. Ornately double matted and framed in gold with a portrait of Washington to an overall size of 39 x 22. COA John Reznikoff/University Archives RRAuction COA. Oversized.
