This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/30/2026
Napoleon Bonaparte letter signed, dated 27 May 1805 a few days after his coronation as King of Italy. Here, Napoleon authorizes the fortification of an Italian port city, affixing his signature underneath the order: ''Sent to the Ministry of War to authorize General [Jean-Antoine] Verdier to hold a detachment of fifty men in this port''. The port city in question was Viareggio, in the province of Lucca.
The document also includes an autograph letter signed by Derville-Malechard, Ministre Plenipotaire of Lucca who advises the Minister of War Louis Alexandre Berthier as to the favorable strategic position of Viareggio and recommends that it be fortified with 50 men. Two page letter on single sheet measures 8'' x 12.25'', with Napoleon's signature appearing to the left of the black wax seal. Minor creasing and folds, a few small holes from seal, else near fine condition.