1785 Philadelphia Bank Draft – Signed by Josiah & Samuel Coates – To John Rudle – Early U.S. Banking
Offered here is an original October 27, 1785 Philadelphia bank draft made payable to John Rudle in the amount of $202.72 9/11 and signed by Josiah & Samuel Coates, a Philadelphia merchant partnership active during the post-Revolutionary era.
The document features the printed line “Cashier of the Bank” and was canceled using the typical light perforated “X” cuts applied by early banks after a draft was redeemed. The reverse is blank, indicating Rudle likely cashed the instrument directly at the counter.
About the Signers
Samuel Coates (1748–1830) was one of Philadelphia’s most influential merchants and philanthropists. A longtime director of the Bank of North America, the first chartered commercial bank in the United States, Coates also served over 50 years as secretary of the Library Company of Philadelphia, founded by Benjamin Franklin. His signature is highly regarded among collectors of early American banking and Philadelphia history.
Josiah Coates, appearing across 1780s Philadelphia tax rolls and merchant directories, was Samuel’s business associate and relative. Together they operated within the prominent Quaker trading networks of the city.
Document Details
Date: October 27, 1785
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Payee: John Rudle
Signers: Josiah & Samuel Coates
Amount: $202.72 9/11
Cancellation: Light perforated X-shaped cuts
Reverse: Blank
Condition: Fold wear, small cancellation cuts, some toning; ink remains legible.
A strong signed example of early Philadelphia banking and commercial history, with the desirable signature of Samuel Coates.
Ships protected and insured.
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