Handsome partially printed DS as president, signed “Z. Taylor,” one page on vellum, 11 x 8, September 26, 1849. A document appointing Edward C. Grafton as a passed midshipman in the Navy. Grafton (died 1876), as flag-officer of the frigate Minnesota when the Confederate vessel Merrimac tried to raise the Union blockade, participated in the ensuing engagement at Hampton Roads. He later commanded the steam gunboat Genesee and participated in the bombardment of Fort Morgan. After the war he was placed in Command of the Gettysburg in the North Atlantic. Very subtle brush and one vertical fold touching signature, otherwise very fine, bright condition. An unusually fresh example with outstanding presence! LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
