Dewitt Clinton Signed Check Paying For Assistants & Himself as Mayor! PSA 8 Auto

Title:
1814 City of New York Check Signed by Mayor DeWitt Clinton — PSA/DNA Encapsulated & Graded NM-MT 8

Description:
Original 1814 municipal check issued and signed by DeWitt Clinton, then-Mayor of New York City, encapsulated and authenticated by PSA/DNA with a high autograph grade of NM-MT 8. The check is dated August 29, 1814, and instructs the Treasurer of the City of New York to pay Bartholomew Skaats the amount of $267.25 "for self and assistants – one quarter," reflecting Clinton’s payment to himself and his mayoral aides for a quarter-year of service. The document is printed with an ornate border and handwritten in period ink, with Clinton’s signature appearing boldly next to his mayoral title. Also signed by Thomas R. Mercein, City Comptroller, and J. Morton, Clerk. The verso bears the recipient's name in period ink: Bartholomew Shaats.

The document remains well preserved with only minor expected wear, and is beautifully presented in a tamper-evident PSA/DNA holder, ensuring long-term archival integrity and display appeal.

Historical Context:
DeWitt Clinton (1769–1828) was a towering figure in early American politics, serving multiple terms as Mayor of New York City and later as Governor of New York. Perhaps best known for championing the construction of the Erie Canal, which dramatically reshaped commerce in the United States, Clinton was also a key leader in shaping New York’s infrastructure, education system, and public institutions during the early 19th century. At the time this check was issued in 1814, Clinton was serving his fifth term as mayor. This document offers a fascinating snapshot of how municipal officials—including Clinton himself—were compensated for public service during a time when New York City was undergoing rapid growth amid the War of 1812.

Authentication & Encapsulation:

• Authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA

• Autograph Grade: NM-MT 8

• Certification Number: 85138219

• PSA slab provides secure protection and permanent verification

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
This is a rare and historically significant document directly linking one of early America’s most influential civic leaders to his active role in governance. With direct reference to his mayoral compensation, a bold period signature, and PSA/DNA encapsulation, this check is both a compelling display piece and a valuable acquisition for collectors of early U.S. history, New York political memorabilia, or autographs of figures associated with America’s foundational infrastructure projects.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.