Signer of the Declaration of Independence from New Jersey (1730–1779). Manuscript DS, one page, 8 x 9, May 17, 1763. A legal document involving a plea of trespass filed in Chowan County, North Carolina. Countersigned by two others named in the document. In very good condition, with intersecting folds (not affecting signature; a few tiny separations), a few tiny ink erosion holes to text, mild toning and wrinkling, and slight blot to first letter of signature. The signature is clear, dark, and otherwise unaffected. In his 1995 reference History Comes to Life, Kenneth Rendell places Hewes’ autograph material into the “very rare” category among the Signers—an echelon second only to that occupied by the virtually unobtainable Gwinnett and Lynch. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
