FRANKLIN, Benjamin. The Complete Works, in Philosophy, Politics, and Morals… With Memoirs of His Early Life, Written by Himself. London: J. Johnson, and Longman, Hurst, Rees and Orme, 1806. Three volumes. Octavo, period-style full speckled calf-gilt, red and black morocco spine labels.

Gems “not before comprised in any collection," this first complete edition issued for a British audience, who remained reverential toward Franklin as one of the Enlightenment’s most practical and original minds, appeared only 16 years after Franklin’s death. Highly desirable, this transatlantic edition captures the full breadth of Franklin's pursuance as scientist, philosopher, statesman, and moralist. 

A collected Works of Franklin was first published in France (1791), Germany (1792), and Sweden (1792). The first edition in English was published in London in 1793; while oft-reprinted, this edition excludes Franklin’s scientific papers. chiefly reprinting only the popular and political writings. This 1806 edition was edited by "Mr. Marshall… [who] used much diligence in searching for essays and papers, that had not before been comprised in any collection" (Ford 550). Engraved frontispiece portrait (V.I); each volume with letterpress and engraved vignette title pages. See Howes F323; Sabin 25600; Ford 464.

Too, this treasure Complete Works provides an intimate glimpse into his formative years through his own memoirs. Franklin's eloquent musings and pragmatic advice resonate to this day. Reflect on his timeless quotes, such as “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” and “We are all born ignorant, but one must work hard to remain stupid.” “Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time; for that’s the stuff life is made of.” Admirers of Gone with the Wind (1939) may recognize this last--all from a body of work, which helped sculpt the moral prescriptions of both the Enlightenment and the emerging American republic.

Sets of this 1806 edition, particularly when preserved in traditional calf bindings, are increasingly sought after by collectors of Americana and Enlightenment thought. The present volumes, handsomely bound in period-style full speckled calf, gilt, with contrasting red and black morocco labels, offers both aesthetic allure and sturdy shelf presence.

In 1787, asked by a bystander what sort of government the framers were bequeathing our new nation, Benjamin Franklin replied: “A republic—if you can keep it” (Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations, 1980). Almost 250 years later, Franklin addresses the same challenge – and warning – in this remarkable set. 

A few plates with expert cleaning, otherwise only scattered foxing and a tiny bit of faint marginal dampstaining. An extremely good copy, beautifully bound. Book #Bv1005. $3500. We specialize in rare Ayn Rand, as well as other legends and landmarks.