One page, approx. 6 1/2 x 8 1/4 in., clipped along curve to left edge, old folds, staining, chipping to edges. New York Customs House embossed seal affixed lower right. 

Joshua Sands certifies that Jakamiah Allen, aged 21, with dark brown hair and brown complexion, born on Long Island, is a citizen of the United States of America. 

These certificates were issued to American sailors to protect them from impressment on British ships leading up to the War of 1812 and thereafter. The 1796 Act of Protection required customs collectors to maintain records of citizenship of those working on US vessels. 

Joshua Sands was appointed Collector of the Port of New York by John Adams, serving from 1797 until 1801. He thereafter represented New York's 2nd District in the United States House of Representatives from 1803-1805, and again from 1825-1827.