Lot 245
Jay, John (1745-1829), Jurist, politician, diplomat, President of Continental Congress (1778-1779), first Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court (1789-1795), Governor of New York (1795-1801). Co-authored, with Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, "The Federalist Papers", a series of 85 articles written in 1787-1788, which are still a primary source for interpretation of the U.S. Constitution. Printed Document Signed, one page, 8½ x 13, no place, no date. "In Congress Wednesday. April 3, 1776. Instructions to the Commanders of Private Ships or Vessels of War, which shall have Commissions or Letters of Marque and Reprisal, authorising them to make Captures of British Vessels and Cargoes." with eleven separate paragraphs detailing procedures to be followed. Signed at the bottom next to the printed word "President". Fine condition with a few edge flaws, accompanied by an engraved portrait.
Estimate 1,000 - 1,500
There is no way to know exactly when Jay signed this copy. He may have done so at the time the law was passed, or when he was elected to the Presidency of Congress, December 10, 1778 (as the law was still in effect), or at any time between.
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| Realized $5,750 |
