A 1p manuscript document in French signed by Thomas Pelham-Holles, 1st Duke of Newcastle (1693-1768), future British Prime Minister, at lower right. The document was issued from Hanover, in the Electorate of Hanover, on October 17, 1750. The laid cream paper fragment measuring 7" x 4" is tipped into a larger paper mount measuring 8.625" x 5.75." Expected wear including light, even toning and isolated edge darkening, else near fine and very legible.

Thomas Pelham-Holles, 1st Duke of Newcastle (more familiarly known as the Duke of Newcastle) signed this bill of exchange confirming receipt of "Five Hundred Livres Sterling" from Michael David, "Chamber Agent of His Britannic Majesty, by Order and for Account of Mr. Albert Nesbitt & Comp. at London…"

The Duke of Newcastle was a career Whig British politician who attached his star to the Hanoverian rulers of Great Britain, in this case, George II. George II regularly visited his family's dynastic estates in Hanover, and occasionally the Duke of Newcastle accompanied him there. Historians also believe that the Duke of Newcastle operated a spy ring from Hanover, gathering intelligence information about the Jacobites and the French.

Michael David (died 1758) was one of the famous Hanoverian Court Jews who were employed by local leaders to undertake delicate diplomatic, mercantile, or financial tasks. David was appointed Court agent and later Chamber Agent of George II after 1714.

Albert Nesbitt (ca. 1675-1753) was a prosperous Irish-born merchant and financier operating out of London. Albert Nesbitt's paternal nephew Arnold Nesbitt (ca. 1721-1779) inherited his uncle's business after 1753 and later secured lucrative government contracts during the French & Indian War. Both Nesbitts served as Members of Parliament.

The Duke of Newcastle served as British Secretary of State between 1724-1754. He served two terms as Prime Minister, the first from 1754-1756, and the second from 1757-1762. Newcastle's tenure thus took place during much of the Seven Years' War; his leadership is directly blamed for the origins of that disastrous international conflict.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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