1788 ALS Letter From King William IV As Duke Of Clarence
1788 Handwritten letter signed “William”, and based on the context and the engraved portrait included, it relates to:
King William IV of the United Kingdom (reigned 1830–1837), formerly the Duke of Clarence.
Autograph letter signed (ALS) by William (likely as Duke of Clarence)
In 1788:
Britain was under George III
Weymouth was a royal seaside retreat (very fashionable and royal-linked)
William was:
Younger
More actively tied to naval service and royal family dynamics
Original folded letter (typical mailing format of the time)
Large, bold “William” signature
Later-added engraved portrait of William IV (not original to the letter but often paired for display)
Authentication notes
The signature style matches known examples of William IV’s bold sweeping hand
Ink, paper aging, and fold structure are consistent with authentic period correspondence
The portrait is a 19th-century engraving, likely added later for presentation (common in collector assemblies)
Condition
Heavy fold wear and staining
Edge discoloration and spotting
Some reinforcement/repair (tape or archival strips)
Overall: fair condition
1788 Handwritten letter signed “William”, and based on the context and the engraved portrait included, it relates to:
King William IV of the United Kingdom (reigned 1830–1837), formerly the Duke of Clarence.
Autograph letter signed (ALS) by William (likely as Duke of Clarence)
In 1788:
Britain was under George III
Weymouth was a royal seaside retreat (very fashionable and royal-linked)
William was:
Younger
More actively tied to naval service and royal family dynamics
Original folded letter (typical mailing format of the time)
Large, bold “William” signature
Later-added engraved portrait of William IV (not original to the letter but often paired for display)
Authentication notes
The signature style matches known examples of William IV’s bold sweeping hand
Ink, paper aging, and fold structure are consistent with authentic period correspondence
The portrait is a 19th-century engraving, likely added later for presentation (common in collector assemblies)
Condition
Heavy fold wear and staining
Edge discoloration and spotting
Some reinforcement/repair (tape or archival strips)
Overall: fair condition
