Rare Collection of Official Diplomatic Documents from U.S. Foreign Service Officer Ernest de Wael Mayer (1931-1961)

Rare Collection of Official Diplomatic Documents from U.S. Foreign Service Officer Ernest de Wael Mayer (1931-1961). We are proud to offer this remarkable collection of 27 documents chronicling the distinguished career of United States Career Foreign Service Officer Ernest de Wael Mayer. Over three decades, Mayer served in numerous diplomatic positions across the globe, navigating both times of peace and periods of international tension. His career, which began in 1931 under President Herbert Hoover and extended through 1961 during the administration of President John F. Kennedy, reflects the dedication, adaptability, and expertise required of a seasoned diplomat during the mid-20th century. In 1947 he was awarded The Medal of Freedom for his work in Casablanca, Morocco and served in France at the time of the German Invasion. 

This collection provides an unparalleled window into Mayer’s service in key postings across France, England, Morocco, Canada, and Germany. Each official document details the positions he held and bears the signature of the President and Secretary of State in office at the time. As was customary, these documents contain what we believe to be facsimile signatures alongside attached official seals.

Recognizing the historical significance of this collection, we decided against selling these documents individually. Instead, we are preserving them as a singular archive—a tribute to a career that contributed meaningfully to U.S. diplomatic history.

This unique collection includes:

• Presidential appointment documents from each era::

  • Herbert Hoover (3)

  • Franklin D. Roosevelt (8)

  • Harry S. Truman (6)

  • Dwight D. Eisenhower (5)

  • John F. Kennedy (1)

• Other notable documents:

  • Canadian appointment certificates (2)

  • Department of State acknowledgment certificates (3)

  • A vintage map of various foreign missions in the Middle East (1)

For collectors and historians alike, this is a rare opportunity to acquire an extraordinary assemblage of historical documents, offering an intimate glimpse into the career of a dedicated American diplomat who played a role in shaping global relations across multiple administrations.