Hanson, John, President of the Congress of the Confederation

Document signed ("John Hanson. Presid."), 2 pages (11 3/4 x 8 in.; 238 x 203 mm), [Philadelphia], 17 July 1782, being an act to seize goods traded illicitly with the British; inlaid, upper right corner scorched with minor loss. Together with: small engraved portrait of Hanson. Grey folding case, grey morocco spine lettered gilt.  

In an effort to suppress illicit trade with the British, Congress enacted a bill by which any goods confiscated would be shared 50/50 by the claimant and by the state in which they were confiscated. This act was signed by John Hanson, the first President of Congress to be elected under the terms of the Articles of Confederation.