Certificate of Discharge" from the "Britannic" Scarce Document Signed by the "Millionaire's Captain" of the RMS Titanic early in his career, 8vo, Liverpool, March 1, 1895 by SMITH, EDWARD

On his way up the maritime career ladder to become Captain of the White Star Line's most important ship, "Titanic", Smith served as Captain of the "Britannic," owned by the same company. Our document is a "Certificate of Discharge" from the "Britannic" for British seamen "F. G. Raddish" age "30." The route of this ship is identified as, "North Atlantic," and the dates of "engagement" and "discharge" are "6th February 1895" to "1st March 1895." Captain Edward Smith signs, "E. Smith" next to his title as "Master." The document is countersigned by a representative from the White Star Line. At the bottom of the document are two stamps with "VG" in the center. One stamp indicates, "Character of Conduct," and the other, "Character of Ability." Tape residue shows on left serrated edge of the document. With beautiful uncommon color post card of the Titanic, 11 x 3.5 inches, captioned with the ship's details. shipping included. The post card was published by Walton of Belfast. The caption reads, "The new White Star liner 'Titanic,' the twin largest vessel in the world, 45,000 tons gross register, 66,000 tons displacement. Length - 882 ft. 9 ins. Breadth - 92 ft. 6 ins. Speed - 21 knots. Accommodation - 2500 passengers, 860 crew." 15% discount when purchased directly from our website at Schulson Autographs. Smith began his life on the sea as a teenager when he signed on to the crew of the "Senator Weber" in 1867. He rose up the ranks and qualifications, earning certificates as a second mate in 1871, a first mate in 1873, and a master in 1875. The first vessel he commanded was the "Lizzie Fennell," a 1,000-ton ship that moved goods to and from South America. Smith switched to passenger vessels in 1880 when he went to work for the White Star Line which would own the "Titanic." By 1885, he was the first officer of the "Republic." Stepping on board the "Britannic" for the first time in 1884, he returned as its captain several times mainly between 1891-95, the year he signed our document. His success on the "Britannic" facilitated his securing commands of the newest and most impressive ships of the White Star Line ultimately including the shipping company's most famous ship, the "Titanic." He became familiar with the transatlantic crossing and known for his easy rapport with the shipping line's elite passengers, thus acquiring his nickname as the "Millionaire's Captain." Smith also served in the British Royal Navy during the Boer War in South Africa (1899-1902). He is now best remembered for his final voyage at the helm of the exclusive but ill-fated ship, "RMS. Titanic." NET Price $6000.