Lot 56
Wilson, James (1742-98) Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Pennsylvania. Partly-printed Document Signed, one page, 13½ x 8½ in. (Philadelphia), Mar. 24, 1795. A deed of sale of land to Dr. Benjamin Rush, another Pennsylvania Signer. Witnessed by Nathan Lufborough and William Johnston. Some show-through from notations on verso; otherwise, a very attractive document. Wilson signed boldly by his small paper and wax seal. Wilson is scarce. (See also in this section the Benjamin Rush document, also signed by Wilson.)
In addition to signing the Declaration of Independence, Wilson was chairman of the committee that presented the first draft of the Federal Constitution and a member of the state convention that ratified it. He also served as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. His later years were marred by ill-fated land speculation, which prompted him to move to New Jersey to avoid arrest for debt in Philadelphia.
Estimated Value $800 - 1,000.
Purchased from Walter R. Benjamin Autographs, Inc. in 1980.
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| Realized $885 |
