Full hand-addressed free frank, measuring 9.75 x 8 unfolded, with panel measuring 5 x 3, addressed by Madison to “Messrs Gales & Seaton, Washington,” and franked in the upper right, “Free James Madison.” In the upper left corner, in another hand is written, “Orange C[ourt] H[ouse] Va, Dec 2,” indicating this was mailed from Orange County, Virginia and likely written at Madison’s Montpelier home. A partial docketing is visible on the reverse, dated November 30, 1825, pinpointing when Madison actually penned the letter. Two light vertical folds through panel, one passing through a single letter of signature and some mild dampstaining to panel and outer edges, otherwise fine condition. The addressees, Joseph Gales and his brother-in-law William Winston Seaton, were journalists who owned and operated the influential newspaper, The National Intelligencer. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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