Walter Nicholls' 1824 copper engraved Columbia College degree.
New York: 1824. A beautifully engraved degree made out in manuscript to "Gualterus Nicholls" (Walter Nicholls), "In Chemia". Nicholls was an early member of the Philolexian Society, one of the oldest literary and debate societies in America, and the oldest student group at Columbia, founded when the institution was Columbia College (from 1784 to 1896). The society has been an integral part of the University, providing the school with honored traditions, noted graduates, and one of its colors (blue).
The degree is engraved with ornate decorations including ribbons and swags, and with a red stamped crest (Columbia seal) at the center, inside a circular frame inscribed “Et decus et pretium laboris.” Below the seal is an illustration of a rock inscribed "Col. Coll. 1824". 9 x 11 1/2" Very good condition. Item #23431
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