Beethoven, Ludwig van.

first edition, folio (c.37 x 26.5cms), 36 orchestral parts, including extra parts for trumpets, drums, cannons and rattles, engraved title, lithographed music, plate no. 2363, "Bemerkungen für die Aufführung" loosely inserted (in French & German), subscription advertisement in Violin 1 (for Symphonies 8 & 9), uncut, original stiching, contemporary ownership inscription to title

Hoboken 388 (and plates 18 & 19); Kinsky/Halm, p.254 

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Rare: we have no record of this first edition appearing at auction in modern times.  This is one of the largest first editions of Beethoven, including parts for four horns, 2 clarini, four trumpets. three trombones, timpani, bass drum, cymbals, triangle, together with extra parts for trumpets, side-drums, cannons and rattles for both the French and English sides of the battle.  The rattles represent the gunfire on both sides ("klein Gewehr-Feuer Maschinen"). 

In the important "Bermerkungen für die Aufführung", Beethoven explicitly demands a conductor for this symphony.  This is of great historical importance, since it charts the evolving role of the conductor, still largely unknown in this period. Performances were usually directed by the first violinist or, in vocal music, from the keyboard  ("...Es ist sehr notwendig, daß...nebst dem Violin Directeur noch ein Kapellmeister den Takt für's ganz geschlagt...").  This loosely-inserted sheet is often missing.