The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Signatories · Monarchy
Alfonso XIII (1886–1941): Signature, Documents and Historical Profile
| Born | 17 May 1886, Madrid |
|---|---|
| Died | 28 February 1941, Rome |
| Reign | King from birth (under his mother’s regency); full authority from 1902; left Spain 14 April 1931 |
| Documents bearing his name | Royal decrees, appointments, commissions, award documents, letters and signed photographs |
| In the collection | See current pieces in the collection |
Alfonso XIII was born king and reigned until the proclamation of the Second Republic in 1931. His signature, with the formula “Yo el Rey”, appears on a vast number of royal documents, which makes him one of the most collected Spanish signatories.
Who Was Alfonso XIII?
Alfonso XIII was born in Madrid in 1886, the posthumous son of Alfonso XII, and was proclaimed king at birth under his mother’s regency. He assumed full authority on his sixteenth birthday in 1902. On 13 September 1923 General Miguel Primo de Rivera seized power in a coup, and his dictatorship lasted until January 1930. After the municipal elections of April 1931 the army withdrew its support, and on 14 April 1931 the King left Spain without abdicating.
What Documents Bear XIII’s Signature?
His signature appears on royal decrees, appointments to office, military commissions, award documents, letters and signed photographs. Heads of state and senior officials did not sign everything issued in their name: printed and stamped facsimiles, secretarial signatures and signatures “by order” are common on routine documents. See original signature or facsimile.
What Should Collectors Watch For?
- “Yo el Rey” is the formula on official acts; check the ink and the countersigning minister.
- Printed signatures appear on many routine certificates.
- Exile letters after 1931 form a separate group.
Exile
Alfonso XIII lived in exile and eventually renounced his rights in favour of his son Don Juan. He died in Rome in 1941.
Collector’s Note
For a Spanish collector, a document signed “Yo el Rey” by Alfonso XIII is a classic. I always look for the ministerial countersignature, which dates the document precisely.
Related Entries and Pieces
Pieces in the Collection
Browse current pieces related to Alfonso XIII in the Autographs & Militaria collection.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When did Alfonso XIII leave Spain?
On 14 April 1931, without abdicating.
What does “Yo el Rey” mean?
“I the King”, the formula used on royal acts.
When did Alfonso XIII die?
On 28 February 1941, in Rome.
Historical Responsibility Notice: this entry documents historical figures and artefacts for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology.
References & Further Reading
- Encyclopaedia Britannica, Alfonso XIII.