1902 Department of State “John Hay” Declaration of Independence For Sale

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1902 Department of State “John Hay” Declaration of Independence:
$450.00

This is the officially certified Department of State facsimile of the Declaration of Independence issued on November 8, 1902, bearing the printed authentication and facsimile signature of Secretary of State John Hay. Period examples are noted for their high-quality printing and clear rendering of the text and signatures; many were produced for dignified display in schools, civic buildings, and private libraries.

John Hay (1838-1905) served as U.S. Secretary of State under President Theodore Roosevelt. In 1902 the Department of State authorized high-quality, officially certified facsimiles of the Declaration for educational and commemorative use—an initiative now widely collected as the "John Hay" edition. Some documented examples feature decorative borders with the coats of arms of the original states and an embossed or printed seal, underscoring their ceremonial purpose.

An authentic 1902 Department of State "John Hay" facsimile offers both aesthetic presence and historical resonance. It captures the iconic typography and signatures in a period-correct format, making it ideal for study, display, or gifting to a history enthusiast, attorney's office, or academic setting. References in institutional collections and sale records confirm the significance and desirability of this 1902 issue among Americana collectors.