John Hancock

John Hancock (January 23, 1737 [O.S. January 12, 1736] – October 8, 1793), partly-printed, signed document (DS) regarding ownership of a sea vessel. This one page document, approximately 8 x 12.75  inches, is dated "December 23, 1780."

Hancock was a merchant, statesman, and prominent Patriot of the American Revolution. He served as president of the Second Continental Congress and was the first and third Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He is remembered for his large and stylish signature on the United States Declaration of Independence, so much so that the term "John Hancock" has become, in the United States, a synonym for signature.

In part; “William Smith of Boston… maketh oath that the Brig Expedition whereof Henry Atkins is at present Master being a square-sterned Vessel… was built at Bermuda in the year One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy and that the said William Smith, Isaac Smith Esq & John Codman are at present Owners thereof; and that no subject of the King of Great Britain, directly or indirectly hath any Share, part, of Interest therein.”

This document is in good condition, with partial separations along central horizontal and vertical folds, repaired separation to reverse of vertical fold, moderate to heavy overall toning, and scattered paper loss to edges. Hancock’s signature remains quite bold and visually appealing. Housed 'floating' in premium linen wrapped matte board behind archival UV protective museum grade plexiglass with ornate gold frame. Finished size of approximately 20 x 24 inches.