Auction Name: 2026 February 26 Historical Manuscripts & Texana Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 47084

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/6328*47084

John Hancock Autograph Document Signed. One partially printed page, 9 x 4 1/2 inches,"Harbour of Boston"; undated but circa post 1764. A bill of lading for goods shipped aboard the Lucy filled out entirely in Hancock's hand. His signature, "John Hancock" at top right listing himself as the shipper. Signed by Charles Anderson, the captain of the Lucy at the conclusion accepting the goods. PSA/DNA certified, graded Mint 9 and encapsulated to an overall size of 13 x 10 inches.

After the death of his father, Hancock was taken in by his wealthy uncle Thomas Hancock, a Boston merchant engaged in shipping, importing, and exporting goods. He served as an apprentice, was educated at Harvard, and eventually inherited his uncle's business upon his death in 1764. This bill of lading likely dates from the time Hancock assumed control of the business.

Condition: Lightly toned. Bottom left corner fully separated, bottom right corner creased. A touch of ink blotting at the right edge. Very small hole at the third line of text, affecting a single letter.

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