Hand-addressed complete free-frank, 5.5 x 3.5, measuring 9.5 x 7.5 unfolded, addressed in Washington’s hand to “Col. Clemt. Biddle, Philadelphia,” and franked in the lower left “Free, G. Washington.” Panel is also marked, “Free,” and postmarked “Alex 23, Jany,” along the top, both in another hand. Clement Biddle was a revolutionary war soldier who helped organize and lead the “Quaker Blues,” a company of volunteers. Biddle also served as the Commissary General at Valley Forge under Washington. After the Revolutionary War he was a U.S. marshal in Pennsylvania. In very good condition, with light water staining, a bit heavier along bottom edge of sheet, a couple professional repairs to small areas of paper loss and partial separations along folds on reverse, and light toning along two vertical folds, one through a single letter of Washington’s signature. The sharp and crisp writing and significant Revolutionary War association add up to an exceptional example from this most important of American statesmen!. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
