1616 King of Spain Philip III Signed Autographed Royal Document Spanish Royalty

Description

This exceedingly rare and historically important royal manuscript, dated May 7, 1616, and November 16, 1616, is hand-signed by King Philip III of Spain and features two fully intact royal wax seals. The 24-page handwritten manuscript is an extraordinary artifact from the height of the Spanish Empire, with specific references to America and the turbulent period surrounding the Potosí mines in Peru. The document represents a rare and significant piece of history, directly connecting the Spanish Crown to its colonial territories during an era of vast territorial expansion.

The manuscript addresses a legal and administrative controversy involving Hidalgo Alfonso Muñoz of Potosí, who served as Escribano Real (Royal Notary) for the King. It pertains to Muñoz's assertion of his official rights, which had been denied by local authorities in Potosí, one of the most important and populous mining centers in the Americas during the 17th century. King Philip III confirms Muñoz’s prerogatives and explicitly validates his authority to use his royal signum within America, underscoring the Crown's commitment to centralized control over its colonial possessions. This document offers an unparalleled glimpse into the governance of the Spanish Empire and the critical role of royal administrators in managing its far-reaching territories.

Measuring approximately folio size, the manuscript is on laid paper with appropriate watermarks, attesting to its authenticity. The manuscript's condition is original and reflective of its age, with some pages torn, fragile paper, and missing sections in certain areas. Despite this, the key components—such as King Philip III’s signature, the royal wax seals, and the "money page" featuring the cross doodle—are remarkably well-preserved and would frame beautifully if desired. These elements make this artifact a museum-quality treasure, further enhanced by the inclusion of signatures from other notable figures from the Spanish Court and Potosí.

King Philip III (1578–1621), also known as Philip the Pious, reigned during the peak of Spain's territorial empire, which was the largest in recorded history at the time. While his political reputation has been criticized for his reliance on the Duke of Lerma and the economic struggles that arose during his reign, Philip III oversaw significant developments, including a temporary peace with the Dutch (1609–1621) and Spain’s entry into the Thirty Years’ War in 1618. His reign marked a critical period of transition, as the Spanish Empire faced both external challenges and internal administrative complexities.

This document is a remarkable testament to the interplay between the Spanish Crown and its colonial administrators, reflecting the legal and political intricacies of governing a vast and diverse empire. With its connection to both King Philip III and the Potosí mines—one of the wealthiest and most important economic centers of its time—this manuscript is an exceptional and unique piece of history. For collectors, historians, and institutions, this is a rare opportunity to acquire an artifact of profound historical significance, representing the height of Spanish imperial power and its enduring influence on the Americas.