Hand-addressed free franked mailing panel, measuring 6.5 x 6.5, addressed in the upper half by Washington to “Mr. Tobias Lear, at the house of the late President of the U. Stat, Philadelphia,” and franked in the lower left, “Free Go: Washington.” Panel also bears a “Free” stamp to upper right. Also docketed in the lower half in an unknown hand, “From Genl. Washington, 10 March 1797.” Panel appears to be affixed to a slightly larger off-white sheet by its corners, and is matted and framed to an overall size of 9.75 x 9.75. In good to very good condition, with partial separations along central horizontal and vertical folds, with vertical fold affecting a few letters of address, scattered toning and soiling, and paper loss along bottom from wax seal.
The President’s House in Philadelphia—”the house of the late President”—was the executive mansion used by Washington and, at the time of this writing, the home was inhabited by his successor, John Adams. Lear, who had served as Washington’s personal secretary, was also a resident, continuing to stay there—along with some 30 others— after the March 4, 1797 inauguration of President Adams. As such, Washington, after retiring as chief executive, addressed this envelope to his friend and confidant at that locale. This is an important piece of US history connecting Washington, Lear, and the early Presidential Mansion. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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