Lot 279: John Hancock

John Hancock
Revolutionary War-dated hand-addressed full free frank, measuring 7.5 x 5, with the address panel measuring 5.25 x 3.25, addressed by Hancock to "To Joseph Warren Esq. & the Gentlemen of the Committee of Safety & C. at Cambridge." Franked in the left side of the address panel, "John Hancock." Frank is also docketed in the top left, presumably by Warren's secretary, "The Honl. John Hancock, Letter April 26, 1775." Nicely double matted and framed to an overall size of 14.75 x 13. In very good condition, with central vertical fold to address panel, expected folds to outer portions, and scattered light toning and soiling, some light paper loss to edges and along folds, and some scattered pinholes of paper loss. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA. The letter that this envelope originally enclosed discussed military matters and referred to Samuel Adams, General Heath, Edward Crafts, and Nathaniel Nazro, whose last names (Crafts & Nazro) were written by Hancock below his franking signature on the here-offered piece. It was Warren that sent Paul Revere and William Dawes on their legendary 'midnight rides' to warn Hancock and Samuel Adams. An incredibly rare war-dated item between Hancock and Warren, who would be killed later at Bunker Hill.