- 216
Franklin, Benjamin
Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- Autograph free frank signed ("B Free Franklin") as Deputy Postmaster General of the Colonies
- paper, ink
on an autograph address panel (3 3/8 x 4 1/8 in.; 84 x 105 mm) cut from an integral blank, [London, 12 June 1766], directed "To | George Read, Esqr. | Newcastle | Pensilvania | via New York Packet}," with red "free" in circle handstamp; light diagonal crease.
Condition
on an autograph address panel (3 3/8 x 4 1/8 in.; 84 x 105 mm) cut from an integral blank, [London, 12 June 1766], directed "To | George Read, Esqr. | Newcastle | Pensilvania | via New York Packet}," with red "free" in circle handstamp; light diagonal crease.
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.
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.
Catalogue Note
A fine and very early example of Franklin's cleverly subversive franking signature: "B. Free Franklin." This free frank must have covered Franklin's brief note to George Read of 12 June 1766, the only letter to Read recorded by the Papers of Benjamin Franklin: "I received your letter of April 14th, and immediately made an application in your favor. It will be a pleasure to me if it succeeds. But the Treasury have so many to provide for that we must not be surprised if we are disappointed. My regards to your good mother, and believe me, with sincere regard, your assured friend and most humble servant" (original lost; text taken from William T. Read, Life and Correspondence of George Read [Philadelphia, 1870], p. 24).