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Lot #105
Francis Scott Key Autograph Letter Signed

The writer of the 'Star-Spangled Banner' speculates on real estate: "There can be no doubt but that the canal...will raise the price of those lands very considerably"

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Estimate: $1000+
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Description

The writer of the 'Star-Spangled Banner' speculates on real estate: "There can be no doubt but that the canal...will raise the price of those lands very considerably"

Baltimore lawyer (1779-1843) who was inspired to write the ‘Star-Spangled Banner’ after he witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry by the British in 1814. ALS signed "F. S. Key," one page both sides, 8 x 10, September 26, 1827. Handwritten letter to a gentleman in Augusta, Georgia. In part: "Capt. W— called on me this evening with the letter from Shaw to you about your...land. As we are all determined here to have the canal, I concurred with Capt. M— in thinking that you ought not to sell. There can be no doubt but that the canal, even before it is begun, as soon as it is plainly seen that it will be done, will raise the price of those lands very considerably. I suppose you got the 50$ & the letter I last wrote you. I shall go to Annapolis next month & will see if Mr. H— is prepared to pay & if the tables are sold." Addressed in another hand on the integral leaf. In very good condition, with light splitting and toning along the folds, and old tape repairs to the last page. Accompanied by an unsigned transcript, penned in another hand, of a legal document related to a case in which Key was involved as attorney.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts
  • Dates: #685 - Ended January 10, 2024





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