Frederick the Great

Frederick the Great autographed document with 5 manuscript lines and signature, 1770.

Frederick II (24 January 1712 – 17 August 1786), King of Prussia from 1740 until 1786, the longest reign of any Hohenzollern King. Frederick's most significant accomplishments during his reign included his military victories, his reorganization of Prussian armies, his patronage of the Arts and the Enlightenment in Prussia, and his final success against great odds in the Seven Years' War. Frederick was the last titled King in Prussia and declared himself King of Prussia after achieving full sovereignty for all historical Prussian lands. Prussia had greatly increased its territories and became a leading military power in Europe under his rule. He became known as Frederick the Great and was affectionately nicknamed Der Alte Fritz ("Old Fritz") by the Prussian people.

A scarce note and signature on a letter addressed to him by his financial department including Johann Rudolf Faesch, Geheimer Finanzrat, and Dodo Heinrich zu Innhausen und Knyphausen. The letter inquires if Frederick wants to employ a certain gardener called Falian as ‘Plantagen-Inspecteur’ (Inspector of Plantations) in Pomerania. Dated, Berlin, 26th September 1770.

The King answers: “Malberbaume könn in Pomeren nicht reussirn. Was wil dan der Kerel inspectirn? Was vohr Bäume? F.“ (Translation: Mulberry trees cannot have success in Pomerania. What will this guy then inspect? What kind of trees? F.”)

This scarce and intriguing letter measures approximately 8 x 13.5 inches. Fine condition with overall expected light toning and a few slight irregularities to the edges and corners.