Item: Historic 1913 Pre-WWI African Diplomatic & Mining Archive (3-Page Lot)
Date: March 17, 1913
Origin: Berlin, Germany
Recipient: U.S. Ambassador John G. A. Leishman
Subject: Abyssinian (Ethiopian) Imperial Mining Concessions & American Investment Capital
Description:
Offered for sale is a fascinating three-page historical diplomatic correspondence file dating to the years immediately preceding World War I. Dated March 17, 1913, this document is addressed to John G. A. Leishman, the United States Ambassador to Germany, and concerns a proposed international mining investment opportunity in Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia).
The correspondence describes a substantial mining concession reportedly granted by the Abyssinian government under Emperor Menelik II to Baron von Falkenegg. It outlines efforts to attract American corporate investment and capital to develop extensive mineral and energy resources, including gold, copper, diamonds, quicksilver, and oil.
Beyond its commercial implications, the letter offers insight into the geopolitical concerns of the period. The author emphasizes Abyssinia’s interest in developing relationships with American investors and partners amid concerns about European territorial ambitions and expanding colonial influence in Africa.
The third page reveals that the author was an American citizen residing in Berlin who appealed directly to the U.S. Ambassador to bring the proposed opportunity to the attention of suitable American investment syndicates.
Preserved as a period carbon file copy, the three-page document features a blank signature block and appears consistent with correspondence retained in an early 20th-century diplomatic or commercial archive.
This historical document may appeal to collectors of pre-World War I diplomatic correspondence, African colonial-era history, Ethiopian imperial history, international mining ventures, and American foreign relations.
Condition:
Excellent vintage condition for a historical document set dating back more than 110 years. The pages feature crisp, legible typewritten text on period paper stock, with minor handwritten ink corrections. Standard legal folding lines and light, uniform age-toning are present. An authentic-looking vintage paperclip impression is visible at the upper-left area of the sheets. The text remains sharp and fully legible throughout.
Please review the photographs carefully to assess the document’s exact condition and visible details.
Shipping & Handling:
The three-page archive will be carefully placed inside an acid-free archival sleeve and packed flat between heavy-duty rigid cardboard sheets to help prevent bending, creasing, or damage during transit. Tracked shipping is included.