^Lot 171 Declaration of Independence: William Ellery

Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Rhode Island (1727–1820). ALS signed “Wm Ellery Coll,” one page, 6.25 x 8, February 27, 1797. Letter to District Attorney Ray Greene. In full: “Sea Letters and passports are signed by the President. Quere: Whether I can with propriety issue any of them under the signature of George Washington dated after the fourth of March; or, in other words, whether such documents ceased to be valid with his ceasing to be President. You are desired to answer this question as soon as possible.” Second integral page bears an address panel in another hand. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, several lightly passing through signature, scattered toning, and slight paper loss and pencil notations to reverse of second page.