July 2012 Auction Ends Tuesday, July 31st, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/31/2012
Jefferson Davis endorsement signed as Secretary of War, dated 3 November 1855. Davis here endorses the opinion of Colonel H.K. Craig, the author of the three page letter. Craig gives his opinion on claims by inventor Eli Whitney, Jr. on ''improvements in the manufacture of Fire Arms''. Whitney was previously awarded a contract to manufacture rifles for the federal government and had applied to Davis for another contract. Letter reads in part, ''...In February 1853 Mr. Whitney preferred a similar claim to the War Department, using nearly the identical arguments in its favor...the contract there given to Mr. Whitney was intended to be a final one...'' Davis signs on the verso, below the words ''Concurred in'' written in another hand: ''Jefferson Davis / Sec. of War. / 3d. Nov. 1855.'' Toning along folds of 7.75'' x 9.75'' 2pp. card style letter. Also tape repairs to tears. Overall in very good condition. Pre-certified by PSA/DNA.
Jefferson Davis Endorsement Signed as Secretary of War -- Regarding the Manufacturing of Fire Arms by Inventor Eli Whitney
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