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Lot #303
Benjamin Franklin Forgery

"You have begun to burn our Towns, and murder our People—Look upon your Hands!—They are stained with the Blood of your Relations!"—an early Franklin forgery

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Estimate: $300+
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Description

"You have begun to burn our Towns, and murder our People—Look upon your Hands!—They are stained with the Blood of your Relations!"—an early Franklin forgery

Forgery of a famous unsent autograph letter signed by Benjamin Franklin, expertly accomplished by an unidentified early forger, likely Joseph Cosey. One page, 8 x 9, July 5, 1775. Letter addressed to William Strahan, in full: "You are a Member of Parliament, and one of that Majority which has doomed my Country to Destruction—You have begun to burn our Towns, and murder our People—Look upon your Hands!—They are stained with the Blood of your Relations!—You and I were long Friends—You are now my Enemy,—and, I am, Yours, B. Franklin." In very good condition, with scattered creasing, foxing, and a tear to the top edge.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts
  • Dates: #583 - Ended May 13, 2020