Description
- A rare 1730 single page document signed by King George II and Robert Walpole, Britain’s first Prime Minister
- The document is a warrant to Britain’s second Prime Minister, Spencer Compton
- Huge size: 18.5 x 11 inches
Robert Walpole (1676-1745) is widely regarded as Britain’s first Prime Minister. He held the role, officially the “First Lord of the Treasury”, for 22 years between 1721 and 1742 - making him the longest serving British Prime Minister to date. He established 10 Downing Street as the home of the Prime Minister. He is also the only Prime Minister to have been previously tried for corruption and imprisoned in the Tower of London – a fate that befell him in 1712 for opposing the Tory government. An astute political operator, Walpole's greatest achievement is arguably restoring the country’s financial security following the 1720 financial crisis that was the South Sea Bubble.
George II (1683-1760) reigned from 1727 until his death. He was the last British king born outside the UK, and the last to lead his troops in battle, when the British defeated the French at Dettingen in 1743 during the War of the Austrian Succession. George’s wife, Caroline, held great influence over him. In 1727 she dissuaded George from replacing Walpole in the top job with Spencer Compton.
Spencer Compton (1673-1743) was Britain’s second Prime Minister. Hard working but limited, he achieved the position of First Lord of the Treasury following Walpole’s resignation in 1742. Compton held the role for just 18 months before his death, becoming the first Prime Minister to die in office.
George II signs the document handsomely “George R” in black ink at the court at Windsor Castle on July 2, 1730.
Countersigned flamboyantly in black ink at the foot by Robert Walpole, and politicians George Dodington and William Yonge.
The document is a warrant to the future Prime Minister Spencer Compton in his role as late Paymaster General of the Guards, Garrisons, and Land Forces. The warrant states that three regiments should be deducted 12 pence of every 20 shillings, and one day's pay per year. The funds to be used by the Royal Hospital in Chelsea.
Crisply trimmed along the left edge. This slightly impacts the text but not the signatures. Features small tears along lower and right edges. There is also a small water stain to the lower edge.
A striking document that bears the rare feature of both George II and Robert Walpole’s signatures. Enhanced by the fame of its recipient, Spencer Compton.
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