PIERCE, Franklin (1804-1869). Partly printed document signed ("Franklin Pierce") as President, countersigned by Secretary of State William L. Marcy. 30 September 1853.

One page, folio, 425 x 551mm. Original paper seal of the United States in center right-hand portion, accomplished in manuscript. (Folds, some minor reinforcements to marginal fold separations on verso.)

A four-language ship’s passport in French, Spanish, English and Dutch, for the vessel William Wirt, commanded by Edward R. Ashley, sailing from New Bedford to the Pacific Ocean presumably for a whaling voyage.

[Slipcased with:]

PIERCE, Franklin. Partly printed document signed ("Franklin Pierce") as President, countersigned by Secretary of State William L. Marcy. 14 November 1855.

One page, folio, 443 x 563mm. Original paper seal of the United States in center right-hand portion, accomplished in manuscript. (Completely separated in two vertically along center fold [not affecting signatures], a few marginal tears repaired on verso.)

A four-language ship’s passport in French, Spanish, English and Dutch, for the vessel Roman, commanded by Zebeder Devoll sailing from New Bedford to the Pacific Ocean laden with utensils and provisions, stores and utensils for a whaling voyage.

Property from the Patrick Atkinson Collection, Minneapolis, Minnesota