May 6, 1791. Manuscript attestation related to the 1790 George Washington Manley Medal. Fine. 8 3/4 inches x 7 1/4 inches. Ink on laid paper, surplus starburst seal impression of the seal of the mayor of New York in lower left. Signed with full titles in their own hands by George Clinton ("Geo. Clinton, Gov of New York," an unusual format for his signature), Richard Varick ("Richard Varick, Mayor of the City of New York"), Antoine Rene´ Charles Mathurin de La Forest ("Antoine R.C.M. delaforest, le consul general du France pour des Etas Unis"). Text in full: "To all magistrates and other persons to whom this writing may be exhibited, we the undersigned do certify that we have seen the medal executed by James Manley of his Excellency George Washington late General of the American Armies, now President of the United States, and that we think it a good likeness and have seen a certificate to that effect signed by different officers and magistrates of said States of America. Dated at New York, this 6th day of May 1791." Wrinkled at surplus seal, quarter folded, old tape repair on blank verso at light fold split, intact and pleasing with light toning. <strong>A remarkable and perhaps unique document</strong>, signed by intimates of Washington to give special gravity to the endorsement: Varick was Washingtons personal secretary from 1777 onwards during the Revolutionary War and Clinton was a close friend and rode with him at his inauguration. The text may have been spoon-fed from Manley himself, as a printed attestation in Philadelphia newspapers of the day, signed by Governor Thomas Mifflin and others, reads "we the undersigned have seen the medal of General Washington and think it is a strong and expressive likenisee, and worthy of the attention of the citizens of the United States of America." We can only assume that this document is unique and that it was created for display at the place of business of whomever was the chief retailer of Manley medals in New York City. One of the most interesting documents related to an early American historical medal extant, this would be the centerpiece of an advanced Washingtoniana collection. From the Q. David Bowers Collection. Earlier ex our (Stacks) sale of the Stack Family Collection, September 2009 Philadelphia Americana Sale, lot 6200. Lot tag included.
