King of Spain (born 1527) from 1556 until his death in 1598. Phillip’s eventful reign included Spain’s conquest of the Philippines (named for him), the establishment of a colony in Florida, and the historic defeat of the Spanish Armada by the British in 1588. Manuscript DS in Spanish, boldly signed “Yo el Rey” [I the King], one page, 8.25 x 11, April 4, 1566. A document ordering that Captain Juan Leangulos, 25 years in service, “be paid much better, because he is a meritorious person and deemed valuable and will serve us excellently. An embossed paper seal remains intact in the left margin. Matted and framed with a handsome antique portrait engraving to an overall size of 20.5 x 18. In very good, attractive condition, with mild scattered toning and soiling, a few chips and tears (lightly touching a few words of text; stabilized by allover professional silking), and light show-through from docket on reverse just touching one letter of signature. The writing throughout is exceptionally dark and distinct. RRAuction COA.
