Washington, George

Broadsheet on paper (9 3/4 x 7 3/8 in.; 248 x 188 mm), accomplished in a clerical hand, "Head-Quarters" [Newburgh, New York], 17 June 1783, countersigned by aide-de-camp Jonathan Trumbull, Jr., and recording adjutant Benjamin Moore; some light soiling, a few small repairs to fold separations, remnant of hinge on verso. 

some light soiling, a few small repairs to fold separations, remnant of hinge on verso.
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.

With ceasefire orders issued in April 1783, Washington began the gradual disbandment of the Continental Army, then situated a short distance from his Newburgh headquarters at the New Windsor cantonment. The plan called for enlisted men and noncommissioned officers to be discharged first, and the present certificate was issued to Serjeant John Herrman of General Moses Hazen's regiment. Herrman's discharge, like those of his compatriots, was provisional, as text on the verso of the document clarifies that "The within Certificate shall not avail the Bearer as a Discharge, until the Ratification of the definitive Treaty of Peace; previous to which Time, and until Proclamation thereof shall be made, He is to be considered as being on Furlough." The Treaty of Paris was signed on September 3, 1783, by commissioners of the United States, Great Britain, France, and Spain.