Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790, American statesman and philosopher, signer of the Declaration of Independence), signature as President of Pennsylvania and shortly following his participation in the Constitutional Convention, on a land grant, August 14, 1788; signed also by James Trimble for Charles Biddle, with a clear impression of the commonwealth seal. By this deed, William Bell gained title to about 240 acres of land in Cumberland Co. Ink on vellum, the seals composed of hard wax and paper.

Intersecting folds, with some light browning along the folds; four of the seal's star points with losses. ********** Additional Comment, Oct. 27: With regard to authenticity, documents of this sort are almost impossible to fake. Nor was it common practice in the 18th Century for a secretary to sign. Provenance to Walter Benjamin adds assurance as well. 888888888 Additional Comments, Oct. 28: The document measures 13 3/8 X 15 5/8 in., excluding the points of the star. Overall, the frame measures 26 X 22 1/2 in.