Partly-printed DS, signed “Th: Jefferson” as president and “James Madison” as secretary of state, one page, 11.5 x 18, January 18, 1803. Scalloped-top ship’s pass issued to the “Ship Pyomingo of New York, Paschal Blaggre master or commander…mounted with no guns, navigated with eleven men to pass with her Company Passengers, Goods and Merchandise without any hindrance, seizure or molestation.” Signed at the conclusion by Jefferson and Madison, and countersigned by the Collector of New York. Archivally matted and framed, with color portraits of Jefferson and Madison and copies of large size US currency on which Jefferson and Madison appear, to an overall size of 35.5 x 21. Jefferson’s signature is very light, but mostly legible (the “Th:” is extremely faint), intersecting folds, two through single letters of Madison’s signature, several additional vertical folds, written portions of document just a shade or two light, and some scattered light toning and wrinkling, otherwise very good condition. On the same day that Jefferson and Madison authorized this ship’s paper, the president sent a secret message to Congress asking for ‘the appropriation of two thousand five hundred dollars, for the purpose of extending the external commerce of the United States.’ This money was used to fund the Lewis and Clark expedition. Incidentally, three years later the Pymingo would be captured by British forces in the West Indies. Such scalloped-top pages, particularly those signed by two presidents, are always desirable with this one even more so with the historic date connection. Oversized. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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