This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/30/2026
James Madison privateer commission from the War of 1812 signed as President, countersigned by James Monroe as Secretary of State. Undated document was signed in advance of its use so that the U.S. could quickly respond to threats from British vessels on the high seas after war was declared in June 1812. Document reads in part, ''...authorising...officers and crew thereof to subdue, seize and take any armed or unarmed British vessel, public or private, which shall be found within the jurisdictional limits of the United States or elsewhere on the high seas, or within the waters of the British dominions...'' Document measures approximately 15.75'' x 12.75'', with intact wax-based paper seal at lower left. Separation starting along folds and tape repair to verso, overall very good plus condition with strong signatures. Privateer commissions from the War of 1812 signed by both Madison and Monroe are quite rare.