Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Georgia (1741–1804) who later served as that state’s chief justice, governor, and senator. Partially printed DS, signed “Geo. Walton, Chf. Justice,” one page, 7.5 x 12.25, no date [circa 1783–89]. A legal petition addressed to Walton as Chief Justice of Georgia related to a claim against William O’Bryan and Lachlan McIntosh of Savannah for non-payment of a debt. McIntosh (1725–1806) earned a footnote in American history as the man who, less than a year after the Declaration of Independence was signed, killed Georgia Signer Button Gwinnett in a duel. With his untimely death at the age of 42, the otherwise obscure Gwinnett attained the status of a legend in the annals of collecting for the sheer rarity and desirability for his autograph—not only as the most difficult to obtain of the Signers, but also as one of the most elusive names in the entire field of Americana. Matted and framed with a portrait and engraved plaque to an overall size of 20 x 19.5. Horizontal folds, a few faint spots, and a hint of scattered toning, otherwise fine condition. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
