United States Constitution | The Columbian Magazine printing of the Constitution, with three other issues

United States Constitution

The Columbian Magazine for September, 1787, and three other issues. Philadelphia: Printed for Seddon, Spotswood, Cist, and Trenchard, 1787

8vo (228 x 138 mm). Bound with issues for October, November, and December 1787, title-pages, woodcut head-pieces, 5 plates with 3 folding, including "A View of the Natural Bridge in Virginia," type in two columns; some edges trimmed though most preserve the deckle, lacking the October plate, foxing, a few marginal holes, one or two stray marks in pencil. Contemporary half sheep over patterned boards, spine with morocco label lettered in gilt and repeat gilt decoration; binding worn and chipped, chips to morocco label, boards rubbed and chipped, with some soiling.

One of two of the earliest magazine printings of the United States Constitution. Another periodical, Matthew Carey's American Museum, also printed the Constitution in its September issue. The edition here contains the letter, signed by George Washington, forwarding the Constitution to the State for ratification. Sabin notes, "An extremely rare magazine. It commenced with Nov., 1786, and was continued to the year 1792, forming altogether twelve volumes. It is ornamented with numerous portraits and other engravings, principally by Trenchard, who was one of the proprietors of the work. The latter, however, from 'the discomfort arising from the discordant views of the different partners, the utter improbability of such a work producing any profit wroth the attention of five persons, and other considerations,' was induced to withdraw from the concern, and, in January, 1787, commenced, on his own account, 'The American Museum'" (Sabin).

REFERENCE:

ESTC P5390 (part); Evans 20280; Sabin 14869