Hancock, John, as President of the Continental Congress

Printed document accomplished in manuscript, signed ("John Hancock"), 1 page (8 1/4 x 11 1/8 in.; 210 x 283 mm), Philadelphia, 5 July 1776, being the appointment of William Peck as Major in the Army of the United States, counter-signed by Charles Thomson, secretary; formerly folded, fold-tears and some small holes at folds affecting one word, laid down on paper, edges browned.

Parke-Bernet, 19 February 1963, lot 99 (unnamed consignor), purchased through Walter Benjamin

formerly folded, fold-tears and some small holes at folds affecting one word, laid down on paper, edges browned.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Signed on the day after the Declaration of Independence, a fine dark signature.

One of the first commissions to be signed after that fateful day, Peck (1755-1832) was, by this document, promoted to major and aide-de-camp to Maj. Gen. Joseph Spenser. A year later, he became Deputy Adjutant General of the Eastern Department with the rank of lieutenant colonel. He retired from the post and from the army in December 1781. In 1790, Washington appointed him U.S. Marshal.