The John Hancock autographed letter, which was signed with initials to George Washington upon Washington’s retirement, dated October 15, 1783. This personal letter began, “My feelings as a private friend, and the very great personal regard for your Excellency with which I have been penetrated ever since I had the honor of an acquaintance with you, would by no means allow one to see you retiring from your important employments without paying you my particular attentions.” The letter sold for $78,000, far exceeding the presale estimate of $12,000-$18,000.

Posted: 03|31|08 at 10:12 am. Filed under: US News.