Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Delaware (1733–1798). Signed book: Historical Collections; consisting of state papers and other authentic documents; intended as materials for an history of the United States of America. Philadelphia: T. Dobson, 1792. Hardcover, 8.75 x 11, 639 pages. Signed at the top of the title page with an ownership signature, “Geo: Read’s.” Autographic condition: couple pencil notations and library stamps to signed page, otherwise fine. Book condition: Ex-library, G+/None. Half-bound in brown leather with green marbled paper-covered boards; edges worn; one dark ink spot to fore-edge of textblock; leather is brittle and has several large chips, especially along spine; both covers have been reattached, with interior front hinge painted to more closely match the brown endpapers; minimal library markings, including bookplate and pencil note on front pastedown and a small inkstamp on title-page; offsetting from bookplate onto ffep; few pencil notes, including one indicating that pages 293-294 are missing; mild rubbing, soiling, and foxing. In a very attractive NF navy cloth-covered case with red leather title-piece and gilt lettering on spine. A reluctant signer of the Declaration of Independence, books signed by Read are extremely rare with only one other appearing for auction since 1982. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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