Partly-printed vellum DS as president, signed “Go: Washington,” one page, 15.25 x 18.5, December 26, 1794. Document reads, in part, “To all who shall see these Presents Greeting: Know Ye, That reposing special Trust and Confidence in the Patriotism, Valour, Fidelity, and Abilities of Francis G. Brewster I have nominated and by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, do appoint him Surgeon’s Mate in the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers in the Service of the United States to take Rank from the second day of June one thousand seven hundred ninety four.” Signed at the conclusion by Washington, and countersigned by ‘H[enry] Knox, Sec[retar]y of War.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, moderate overall rippling and creasing, a mild overall shade of toning, three stains along central horizontal fold (with a few small spots of accompanying paper loss), and a bit of scattered light foxing. The white paper seal is evenly toned and mostly intact. Washington’s signature is unaffected, bold, and prominent.
In exchange for his duties as surgeon’s mate, Brewster and other men like him earned a total monthly salary of $36 and two rations. Two years following this appointment, the government reorganized the army, in the process increasing the need for surgeon’s mates as regiments were required to have two individuals in that position. One cannot understate the extreme scarcity and remarkable beauty of this document, a level above others of its kind, with a fabulous endorsement cleanly executed with care and precision. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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