April 2012 Auction Ends Monday, April 30th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/30/2012
King George III signs the top of a document ''George R'' in huge script as the long-reigning King of Great Britain. Dated 27 June 1791, document serves as a patent for an invention issued to brewer Richard Hare of Limehouse, Middlesex: ''...after much study and expence [sic] hath invented an apparatus whereby the essential oyl [sic] of hops...is preserved and applied to use...he conceives the said invention will be of great Public Utility, that he is the first and true inventor thereof and that the same hath not been made or practised by any other person...The Petitioner therefore most humbly prays that we will be graciously pleased to grant...our Royal Letters Patent under the Great Seal of Great Britain...'' Countersigned by Henry Dundas. 3pp. document on card-style stationery is impressed by a seal to the left lower half that reads: ''II Shillings and VI Pence''. The patent was later called into question in court, in the John Vickris Taylor v. Hare case. The court deemed this patent null and void, citing common use of the apparatus as proof it had never been eligible for patenting in the first place. Measures 7.75'' x 12.25''. Partial separation to center fold and to horizontal fold line edges. Light toning and mild soiling to verso, else near fine.
King George III Signed Beer-Making Patent -- 1791
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