Description

Description: On June 1, 1920, Alfred E. Smith (1873-1944) signed this check for $128 as Governor of New York. The New York Attorney General, Charles D. Newton (1861-1930), has also signed. The check is drawn on Livingston County Trust Company and is made out to Humphrey’s Central Detective Corp. There are two ink-stamped cancellations on verso and a perforated cancellation in the center.

2 3/4″ x 6 1/2″. Item #A01657

Al Smith left school after the eighth grade to help support his family. He got his start in politics by performing unofficial jobs for the Tammany Hall machine and was able to rise through the ranks without becoming tarnished by Tammany corruption. He served as a progressive New York State Assemblyman from 1904 to 1915 before returning to New York City for three years as Sheriff and President of the Board of Aldermen. He served as Governor of New York from 1919 to 1920 and 1923 to 1928, and was the Democratic nominee for President of the US in 1928.

Condition: Wrinkling near center, perforated cancellation just barely touches “Smith”. Generally good condition with a neat, bold signature.