Artfact Features a Collection of Rare Americana to Celebrate Independence Day
BOSTON—July 1, 2013—Artfact, the world's largest online live auction marketplace, announced that it is offering a range of historically significant, rare and unique collectible items to celebrate American independence. These items range from the first printing of the "Star Spangled Banner" to a Revolutionary War-dated letter by George Washington.
"As the world's largest live auction marketplace, Artfact is proud to offer items celebrating American history, heritage and independence," said Rob Weisberg, CEO, Artfact. "As we head toward 4(th) of July festivities, it's important for our nation to remember, treasure and value our history and celebrate our independence."
Leading the line-up is Daniel Webster's personal copy of the Analectic Magazine containing the first "The Star Spangled Banner" printing. Webster was a leading American statesman during the nation's Antebellum Period, a Whig Party leader, Secretary of State and campaigned three times in an attempt to achieve the presidency of the United States. This historic book is Daniel Webster's own copy, featuring his personal "Daniel Webster" engraved bookplate and has an estimated value between $14,000 and $18,000.
Another 4(th) of July-themed item for auction is a cased tintype featuring a group of five men posed with the American flag held at center dated circa 1860. This oval image is housed in a brass filigree with a detailed mat.
Another item of great historic significance is a letter signed by Thomas Jefferson as Secretary of State dated November 10, 1791 to Thomas Johnson. The letter is in fine condition with minor chipping and browning on the edges. In the letter, Jefferson is officially notified of his appointment as 6(th) Justice of the United States Supreme Court.
Next, Artfact features a Revolutionary War-dated four-paged letter signed by George Washington and dated July 9, 1782. Titled "Head Qrs. Newburgh," this letter from Washington was written to Lt. Col. Tench Tilghman, who also served as Washington's aide during the war and is in fine condition.
From the mid-19(th) century, Artfact is offering a scrimshaw whale's tooth featuring an American eagle clutching a twelve-star American flag in its beak. The eagle's wings wrap almost entirely around the circumference. This scrimshaw item exhibits high quality workmanship with exceptional feathered detail in the eagle's wings and an excellent patina.
Lastly, Artfact features a 13-star United Stated banner dated circa 1890. This item is in good condition with minor holes and tears and has an estimated value of $200 to $300.
About Artfact
Artfact is the world leader in developing SaaS and ecommerce applications for the auction industry. Comprised of Artfact.com, Invaluable.com and Auctionzip.com, Artfact is the world's largest live auction marketplace, reaching over 30 million unique bidders a year, and serving more than 25,000 individual auction houses globally. Through Artfact's web properties, more than 3 million visitors per month arrive at the virtual doorsteps of auctioneers with unprecedented access to search and buy from over 160,000 auctions each year with a combined value of over $25 billion.
Source: Artfact.