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A collection fit for a King: Charles II letter could rule manuscripts sale
Over 100 handwritten documents from the great and the good of English history go under the hammer
Dumouchelle is holding another of its antique and collectable items auctions with the usual broad mix of pieces on offer. On the second day of the sale, one lot in particular stands out.
This is a collection of British historical documents, signatures & letters, 114 in total, in three bound books, dating from the 16th to 18th century. Boasting various documents, letters and signatures from highly significant historical British figures or their affiliates; all are contained within three bound books, having leather covers and silk end pages.
They are from the collection of Edgar Guest, who was a Detroit newspaper man and poet. In fact he was so popular in the first half of the 20th century he became known as the People's Poet.
The collection, which seems rather modestly estimated at $7,000-10,000, comprises 114 items including some signed by kings: a Charles II of England signed, handwritten letter with a watermark and a signed, handwritten letter by James I of England (also known as James VI of Scotland).
 Charles II letter (Click to enlarge) |
Other notable pieces include a signed, handwritten letter by Sir Julius Caesar. (No, not that one. You're not likely to see a genuine example of the Roman dictator's signature on the market. Sir Julius Caesar (1558-1636) was an English judge and politician and held prominent positions under Elizabeth I and James I.)
There is also a signed handwritten document with watermark , by Robert Catesby (Instigator of "The Gunpowder Plot ") & his father Sir William Catesby along with other signatures and an autographed letter, signed by Protestant martyr Hugh Latimer with a watermark (but no date).
Dumouchelle's auction takes place on February 11-13 in Detroit, Michigan, USA. Collectors looking to invest in historical Royal documents may wish to take a look at this selection, especially this extraordinary letter by Henry VIII.
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Images: Dumouchelle
