Exceptional group of 19th-century Supreme Court autographs, highlighted by a fine autograph letter signed by Chief Justice Roger B. Taney, dated April 3, 1851. Writing from Washington, D.C., to T. A. Cheney of Chautauqua County, New York, Taney apologizes for the delay in responding to a letter due to the Supreme Court being in session and occupied with official duties. Boldly signed “R. B. Taney” at close. The reverse bears unrelated notes in another hand discussing Supreme Court opinions and publications.
Also included are two additional signatures of Associate Justices: Samuel F. Miller, dated “Sup. Court Room, Oct. 1, 1866,” signed “Sam. F. Miller / Asso. Jus. Sup. Court U.S.”; and David Davis, Abraham Lincoln’s close friend and confidant, signed “D. Davis, Associate Justice S.C.U.S.”
Taney's letter displays light toning and edge staining with small mounting traces on the verso; handwriting remains dark and legible, with a bold, unaffected signature. The reverse text in another hand shows heavier toning but does not detract from the display. The Miller and Davis examples are clean and well-preserved, with crisp signatures and minor age toning. Overall, fine condition.
With One of a Kind Collectibles LOA