Born in Philadelphia in 1757, he was educated at the University of Pennsylvania, from which he graduated in 1776. On March 19, 1778, he was admitted to the bar, the first Jew to do so in the United States. From 1802 to 1822 he was recorder of Philadelphia; from 1822 to 1825, presiding judge of the district court for the city and county of Philadelphia. At one time he was a member of the Philadelphia Legislature, and he was a trustee of the University of Pennsylvania for twenty-four years. Levy was with George Washington during the famous crossing of the Delaware River in 1776. ALS to John Read, one page, 6.5 x 5, July 27, 1815. A certificate for fifty-two shares in the North America Insurance Company with Levy’s handwritten note: “Dear Sir, with this you will receive the Certificates of the late Miss Pierces [sic] stock. Your very hble servt.” In fair condition, with scattered toning, several separations, document separated completely from its (formerly) integral address leaf, paper loss and toning, none of which affects signature. R&R COA.
