Franklin, Benjamin, printer

The Charters of the Province of Pensylvania [sic] and City of Philadelphia. [With section titles:] A Collection of all the Laws of the Province of Pennsylvania: Now in force. [and:] An Appendix; containing a summary of such acts of assembly as have been formerly in force within this province ... Philadelphia: Printed and sold by B. Franklin, 1742 [1743]

Folio (11 5/8 x 6 3/4 in.; 295 x 170 mm). Three title-pages; some light browning, mostly marginal spotting and staining. Contemporary reversed calf, in a half morocco drop-box; upper joint and foot of spine mended, extremities worn.

Benjamin Price (signature on title along with that of his son Philip) — Charles Cooper Townsend (armorial bookplate) — Ernest Sturm (bookplate) . Acquisition: Ursus Rare Books

Campbell 237a-c; Evans 5033; Hildeburn 755a-c; Miller 288

In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

First Franklin edition. Agitation for a complete and correct edition of the laws of Pennsylvania began in 1737, and in early 1739, John Kinsey, the Attorney General of the province, was appointed to supervise the project. Franklin received Kinsey's revised copy in the spring of 1741 and completed the printing two years later.