A manuscript signed by John Hancock is valued at $4,000-6,000 in Swann Auction Galleries' November 20 autographs auction in New York.

The lot dates to February 25, 1776, in the midst of the revolutionary war, and appoints a Murdock McPherson as "Ensign in a Regiment whereof Moses Hazen Esquire is Colonel."

John Hancock signed the manuscript in 1776

Hancock became wealthy through his smuggling ventures during the colonial era and used his money and clout to back the revolutionary cause.

His tireless fundraising drives kept the army afloat during the most turbulent times of the war.

He is best known for his enormous signature on the Declaration of Independence, leading to the adoption of his name as a synonym in the US.

His role as one of the great founding fathers, in addition to the legendary status of his signature, ensures a strong market.

A 1768 John Hancock signed letter railing against taxation without representation achieved $83,650 in a sale at Christie's New York back in 2004,

We have this authentic strand of hair from founding father and first president of the United States, George Washington.  

The sale will also include a farewell address from confederate colonel JS Mosby, also known as the Grey Ghost.  

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