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Auction: 314 - Numismatic Collector's Series Sale
Lot: 1124

Victoria I Queen of the United Kingdom and Empress of India (1819-1901, ruled from 1837); presided over the zenith of the British Empire. Interesting Manuscript Document Signed "App´d: / Victoria R" as Queen, 1 page, narrow 4to (a folded cover, sealed on verso), Admiralty, March 13, 1852. The Queen gives her approval to the sentence of "Edward Lord, a Private in the 72nd Company of Royal Marines having been tried by a General Court Martial for desertion, and making away with articles of his divisional clothing, and necessaries, and sentenced to seven years transportation..." With three fine impressions of the Admiralty Seal in red wax on verso. Soiled, especially at edges, otherwise VG. Quite likely Lord was transported to Australia, where many convicts, especially those not guilty of violent crimes, enjoyed near-freedom and helped build the country´s infrastructure. Alongside ordinary settlers, former prisoners would become the foundation for one of the world´s great modern democracies.

Sold for
$575