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Rare partly-printed DS, signed “Th: Jefferson” as president and “Levi Lincoln” as acting secretary of state, one page, 22.25 x 17.5, May 2, 1801. Four-language ship's paper issued to "Edward White of Newbern, master or commander of the Sch’r called the Romp…lying at present in the port of N. York bound for Tortola and laden with Flour, Corn, Beef & Shingles.” Signed in the center in crisp black ink by President Thomas Jefferson and countersigned by Acting Secretary of State Levi Lincoln. Also countersigned below by Joshua Sands as Collector of the Port of New York; Sands had served in the Revolution and would later represent New York in Congress. The left side retains its original two embossed seals. Impressively double-matted and framed with a portrait of Jefferson to an overall size of 34 x 38. In good to very good condition, with irregular light toning, tears, creases, and edge chipping, none of which adversely affect Jefferson's signature.
This type of document was generally left blank and signed in advance by the president and secretary of state, then sent to ports and harbors to be filled out as needed. This pass must have been signed quite early in Jefferson's term—Levi Lincoln, appointed as attorney general, also served as acting secretary of state from March 5 through May 1, 1801. James Madison had been officially named to the position, but did not arrive in Washington until May due to illness. A scarce and highly desirable presidential document—this is just the third such Thomas Jefferson–Levi Lincoln example we have encountered.
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