DS as president, signed “M. Van Buren,” one page, 10 x 7.25, July 10, 1840. President Van Buren appoints James H. Spotts a Midshipman in the United States Navy. Signed at the bottom in black ink by Van Buren, and countersigned by Secretary of the Navy James K. Pauling. Matted and framed with a portrait of Van Buren, to an overall size of 22 x 13.75. Vertical fold through first initial of signature, trimmed edges, and some small areas of paper residue under signature, otherwise fine condition. JSA/John Reznikoff Auction LOA and RRAuction COA.