March 2022 Autographs & Memorabilia Auction - Closes Thursday, March 31st

Lot #805:

Declaration of Independence: William Ellery Signed Colonial Document (PSA/DNA Encapsulated NM 7 Autograph Grade) 

A paper fragment, 3.75” x 1.5,” signed in the third person by William Ellery (1727-1820), the future Declaration of Independence signer, as "William Ellery" at center. PSA/DNA graded NM 7. In fine condition. The slab measures 7.25” x 4.25.” Document reads, “Rec'd / Newport Dec 14th 1771 of William twenty six pounds in value Shillings and nine pence in full of all accounts Peleg Cary.”

William Ellery lived his entire life in Newport, Rhode Island. The Harvard College graduate was a merchant, customs collector, lawyer, and state assembly clerk before serving as a Rhode Island delegate in the Continental Congress in 1776. His signature on the Declaration of Independence is second largest after Boston merchant John Hancock's.