Partly-printed DS, signed as president “John Adams,” and as secretary of state, “John Marshall,” one page, 19 x 15.5, November 15, 1800. Four-language ship’s papers issued to “John Thissel, master and commander of the Brig called Fanny…lying at present in the port of Beverly, bound for Leghorn and laden with Fish, Pepper, Cocoa, Tea, Beef.” Signed across the third and fourth panel by Adams and countersigned on the fourth panel by Marshall. Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 31.25 x 23. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, two lightly passing through Adams’s signature, circular toning over Marshall’s signature from seal, small tear to top edge, thin mounting remnant along right edge, and some repairs or reinforcements along folds on reverse. The seal is intact, but worn and discolored.
Leaving its home port in Beverly, Massachusetts, in late November of 1800, the Brig Fanny traveled to Livorno (“Leghorn”), Italy, and Alicante, Spain, on a four-month shipping voyage during which it transported predominantly a large supply of fish. The ship belonged to well-known sailor and merchant Israel Thorndike, who had served as a privateer during the American Revolution before becoming an active politician in the Massachusetts legislature. Ship’s papers signed by Adams are among the most difficult to find, making this a highly desirable piece. Oversized. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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