Lot 267
1788 (May 29) Mount Vernon Va. to Philadelphia Pa., ALS, datelined folded business letter written entirely in George Washington's hand, bearing "Free George Washington" free frank endorsement and "ALEX, MAY 30" straightline postmark, Very Fine and choice. Estimate 20,000 - 30,000
At this time Washington was a private citizen. Normally a free frank was granted to a position rather than a person. Because of the volume of mail Washington received, the Continental Congress, in 1782, had authorized him the franking privilege personally. This is the only instance of Congress authorizing the franking privilege to a person rather than to a position.
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Realized $20,000 |