1863 Request for Passport Beyond Confederate Lines

Description: 1863 Request for Passport Beyond Confederate Lines – General Winder Offered for your consideration is a manuscript request, directed to a Confederate general, asking for a passport, the actual purpose of which is not stated. The main body of the document states that “Genl Winder / Will greatly oblige by giving Carlo Franceschi a passport to go beyond the Confederate lines – I know him personally to be a native of Italy and not a Naturalized Citizen”, with the request being presented “Very Respectfully &c” by “A. Baratta” of “Franklin SC”. At the lower left, in a different hand, is a manuscript certification which states that “Mr A. Baratta’s certificate is entitled to all respect. I have known him about Ten years, he is trustworthy, and a good citizen”. This portion was penned “Feby 13/63” by “Wm Tayler”, as noted in the closing line. The back of the piece was originally blank, though it now bears a manuscript filing notation which reads “Carlo Franceschi / July 13th 1863 / Voucher for pass”, presumably penned so that the document would not have to be opened after filing (based on the condition of the piece, it would appear that it was frequently referenced, and may have been used in lieu of the passport itself). Given that there is no provision on this request for a return to Confederate lines, it is quite possible that Franceschi may be returning north or attempting to return to Italy. An interesting document that begs for further research. Cursory research locates all of the surnames mentioned on this piece, though whether they are the specific individuals noted is not known to the seller. Additional research places General Winder in Richmond, Virginia at the time this piece was written. Very unusual. The presently offered document exhibits signs of significant period use, followed by years of less than ideal storage. Toning is noted across the entire surface, imparting a beige to light tan hue to the paper. This toning is somewhat darker at the edges and along the many multi-directional folds. Soiling, as well as minor staining, can be found throughout this piece, significantly more visible on the mainly blank back. The contrast is sharp, especially at the certification penned by Tayler at the lower left. This situation is principally due to the amount of ink used in the production, again, especially at the certification. Several significant ink stains, as well as significant overall corrosion, can be seen throughout, especially when the piece is viewed from the back (none of the paper has been lost, though a small piece of archival tape is present behind the ink stain at the right). Many of the aforementioned folds have adversely the integrity of the paper, with minor separations noted at the edges and along the central juncture. This interesting piece measures approximately 5⅜ x 7⅝ inches, with the writing being very close to the edges. An unusual piece, worthy of further research. If you have any additional questions regarding the condition of this item, please ask before purchasing. A charge of $5.95 will be added to the winning bid for postage and insurance. A $5.00 charge will be added to any item picked up in person at our physical location. If you have any questions concerning this item, please ask before purchasing. Buy or Bid with Confidence – American Coins & Collectibles President Richie Self has worked 6 years as a paper money grader/authenticator. He has contributed to numerous reference books within the industry, as well as being a co-author of “The Comprehensive Catalog and History of Confederate Bonds, 2nd Edition” with Douglas B. Ball, Ph.D., Henry F. Simmons, M.D., Ph.D. and James R. Desabaye. Mr. Self is a life member of the American Numismatic Association, the Society of Paper Money Collectors, as well as numerous regional numismatic associations. He is an authorized submitter to NGC, PCGS, and PMG, a diamond founding member of Coin Dealers Helping Coin Dealers and a supporter of the Industry Council for Tangible Assets. American Coins and Collectibles can be found at many of the state and local coin shows. American Coins and CollectiblesShreveport, LA

Price: 395 USD

Location: Shreveport, Louisiana

End Time: 2024-09-07T17:09:53.000Z

Shipping Cost: 5.95 USD