Madison, James (1751-1836) 4th President of the United States (1809-17); "Father of the Constitution." Partly-printed Document Signed as President, vellum, 15 x 11¼ inches, November 25, 1812. Countersigned by James Monroe as Secretary of State and by David Gelston, Collector of the Port of New York. War-date Ship's Passport for the ship "Zephyr of New York Jedediah Olcott master or commander of the burthen of Two hundred Eighty-Eight & 62/95 tons or thereabouts mounted with Six guns navigated with Twenty two men…." Scalloped top edge and naval engravings; seal at lower left has a few cracks and one "tooth" missing. Madison's first name is a little light but "Madison" is bold, as is Monroe's signature. The War of 1812 began five months before this ship's passport was issued.
Estimated Value $1,600 - 2,200
U.S. Presidents