Signed book: A Defense of Fisherman. First separate edition of 50 copies. New Jersey: Privately printed, 1902. Hardcover, 6.5 x 9.75, 14 pages. Signed and inscribed on the half-title page, “Hon. Geo. B. McClellan, Grover Cleveland, Dec. 23, 1905.” Printer’s note printed in the rear of the book lists the distribution of the 50 copies: “I make hearty acknowledgment of my debt to the author (which I shall never be able fully to discharge) by assigning to his use twenty copies of this book (of whose printing he in unwitting).” In very good condition, with light mirroring of signature and inscription to opposite page, separation along front hinge, a bit of light staining to fore-egdes, and some scattered light wear and rubbing to covers and spine. Also included is a short note from the printer, John G. Finley, on one of his personal calling cards, which reads, “And with the best of good wishes for the Christmas time from the Printer. Dec. 23, 1905.”
This privately-printed book is—as noted above—one of only a handful produced, with this desirable example having been inscribed by Cleveland to McClellan, son of the Civil War general. Cleveland’s story was originally told in an issue of The Saturday Evening Post and then reprinted in a small 50-piece gift run, making it a decidedly scarce item.
Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for
$50.00
*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.
