English-born Quaker (1644–1718) who was the founder and “absolute proprietor” of the colony that later became the State of Pennsylvania. An early proponent of colonial unification, Penn outlined a set of principles, The Pennsylvania Frames of Government, that, a century later, would serve as a model for the U.S. Constitution. Penn’s philosophies on representative government, equality, and religious tolerance influenced the likes of Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Paine, and Voltaire bestowed lavish praise on Penn, noting that “William Penn might glory in having brought down upon earth the so much boasted golden age, which in all probability never existed but in Pennsylvania....” Scarce partly engraved DS in Latin and English, signed “Wm. Penn,” one page, 8.25 x 13, docketed in another hand 1707. An agreement involving the settlement of an estate for which Penn was executor. Countersigned by J. Springett [likely an in-law; Penn’s wife, the former Gulielma Maria Springett, died in 1694], John Page, and Jos. Davis. Light wrinkling, mild soiling, and short edge separations along folds, otherwise fine, bright condition. Historic and quite uncommon! Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
