Watch List notes:

Astor, William Backhouse (1792-1875). American business magnate who inherited most of his father, John Jacob's Astor's fortune; followed his father's example and invested heavily in New York City real estate. Autograph Letter Signed "Wm. B Astor" for his father. One page, New York, 20 April 1844. Astor writes to the cashier of the Bank of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia regarding the transfer of a stock certificate to his name [meaning John Jacob's?). William signs "I am very respectfully your obedt servt John Jacob Astor by Wm B Astor". Very Fine..

Estimate: $300-400