* RARE * 1938 BEN FRANKLIN SIGNED Carl Van Doren FIRST EDITION NUMBERED Benjamin

Description: This is the full three-volume Franklin biography that earned American writer and critic Carl Clinton Van Doren the Pulitzer Prize for Biography in 1939. Divides Franklin's life into three time periods marked by places; the volumes are thus named "Philadelphia," "London," and "Paris." One of 625 sets, SIGNED BY THE AUTHOR AND NUMBERED It is an EXCEPTIONAL SIGNED LIMITED FIRST EDITION series of Benjamin Franklin by Carl Van Doren. This ALL-RAG paper First Edition is limited to 625 sets signed by the author - THIS SET IS # 420. - This set is printed on all-rag paper by the Haddon Craftsmen bound by the Russell-Rutter company.- Illustrations are hand printed.- First published in September 1938- Author signed and numbered The condition of these books are immaculate! I do not believe they've ever been read as the binding is extremely tight. I haven't fully opened the cover on any of them out of fear of stretching the binding. I acquired this set from the estate of George Nelson Dayton (founders of Dayton's Department Store, which later became Target Corp.). The inside of each book is signed "G Dayton". This set was given to George from his son "Wally"/Wallace (see picture of Christmas tag, which I found in the book). I've also attached a picture of the Dayton family tree for reference. There is not another set for sale on the internet and this is a rare opportunity to acquire such a pristine set of books, from a first edition numbered set, with the provenance from such a historic family, about one of the greatest figures in US history. When I acquired this set years ago, I remember finding the Christmas tag (see picture) in one of the books. If memory serves, the tag created a rectangle of foxing (discoloration) on one of the pages from the Christmas tag. I tried to find it so I could show a picture, but I wasn't able to locate it. That discoloration is literally the only flaw to any of these books. It's not possible to find a better set anywhere in the world, let alone find this set (signed, numbered limited edition, and all-rag paper) in any condition. Don't just take my word for it, search the internet and see for yourself. If you're truly interested in purchasing this set and finding the page with the tag discoloration is of high importance, let me know and I'll do it. The cool thing about it is... the discoloration from the Christmas tag actually further proves the provenance. I removed the tag from the book once I found it to limit the foxing, but I kept it and will include with the purchase. I'm always happy to provide additional pictures and answer any questions you may have. ------------------------------------------------------- Only serious buyers, PLEASE! I reserve the right to refuse any sale based on buyers feedback, location, and ultimately on my sole discretion. US Shipping ONLY I'm committed to full satisfaction of your purchase and I'll refund the purchase if you're not 100% satisfied. Return Policy: Item can be returned in original, unaltered condition for a full refund, minus ALL shipping fees. All return shipments MUST BE insured for the total purchase price.Thanks for looking and I will be adding new listings for coins and collectibles each week. Please check back.

Price: 785 USD

Location: Mound, Minnesota

End Time: 2024-11-10T22:07:42.000Z

Shipping Cost: 19.5 USD