643. JOHN HANCOCK (1737-1793) American Revolutionary politician and first signer of the Declaration of Independence, President of the Continental Congress and two-time Governor of Massachusetts. Rare war-date A.D.S. "John Hancock President" as President of the Continental Congress, 1p. small 4to., Philadelphia, May 26, 1777, a pass. In part: "To [All] Continental Of[ficers and to] wh[om it] may Concern Permit Colonel Joseph McIlvaine Mrs. [?] C. Graydon to Pass to Morris Town without the least hindrance or Interruption. Given under my hand..." Professional restoration and ink infilling to text and a fairly substantial portion of the signature, upper-right corner gone but also professionally filled, otherwise an appealing document Estimated accordingly. Certified as fully authentic by noted authenticators PASS-CO, with their Certified Silver Professional Authentication Service Summary certificate no. GB23123. $3,000-4,000