King of England and Ireland 1547 until his death in 1553, who took the throne at the age of nine: during his reign, the realm was governed by a regency council due to his young age. When he fell sick with a terminal illness at age 15, a succession plan was drawn up to prevent the country's return to Catholicism, resulting in the eventual proclamation of Lady Jane Grey as queen. Rare vellum manuscript DS, signed “Edward,” one page, 11 x 8.5, May 24, [1547]. Document commanding Richard Bonnye to deliver £3,000 to Sir Thomas Grey, Treasurer of Berwick, for the payment of fees and wages of the officers and soldiers of the town. Signed at the head by King Edward VI ("Edward"), and countersigned at the conclusion by Lord Protector Edward Seymour, 1st Duke of Somerset ("E. Somerset") and others. The paper seal affixed at center remains partially intact. In very good to fine condition, with creasing, soiling, pin holes along the bottom, a small diamond-shaped hole to the left margin, and some damage to the seal. Because of his young age and early death, King Edward VI's autograph takes a place among the rarest of all English royalty. This is just the second Edward VI document we have ever offered.
Provenance: Sotheby's, 27 June 1977.
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