Full hand-addressed free frank, 9.25 x 7.5, with franked panel measuring 5.25 x 3.5. Addressed in Washington’s hand to “Col. Clem. Biddle, Philadelp,” and franked in the lower left, “Free Go: Washington.” Stamped above, “Alex[andria], March 24,” and docketed in another hand with the date 1788. In very good to fine condition, with light staining and a repaired area of seal-related paper loss; the writing remains clear and dark. Clement Biddle (1740–1814) helped to organize the ‘Quaker Blues’ volunteers and served as Washington’s Commissary General at Valley Forge. The free frank originates from a letter in which Washington affirms to Biddle the arrival of a bill of lading and certificate of articles related to a packet still en route; additionally, Washington expresses gratitude for Biddle’s attention to his letters, and encloses a bank bill of forty dollars for interest and related charges. Four years after leading the Continental Army to victory in the war for American independence, Washington was persuaded to attend the 1787 Constitutional Convention as a Virginian delegate. An immensely popular figure, he was unanimously elected as the conference’s president upon his arrival, a position he used to decry the Articles of Confederation and promote the constitution’s eventual ratification; on June 21, 1788, three months after this free frank was signed, New Hampshire became the ninth and final crucial state to formally endorse the document. A remarkably early and bold example, signed by Washington over a full year before being sworn in as the nation’s first president. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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