Rare second edition broadside printing of the “Declaration of Independence,” 9 x 12.25, engraved by George G. Smith and published by Charles Root of Boston circa 1845. This historic design is largely based upon the earlier Binns (1819) edition, presenting the full text of the Declaration document with complete facsimile signatures of the signers. The outer border shows the official seals of the 13 original states and the top features portraits of the first 11 American presidents, George Washington through James K. Polk, in a decorative, historical surround that also included the U.S. Capitol. . In very good to fine condition, with some chipping to the edges, and staining to the lower border. There is an existing first edition showing the first 10 presidents (George Washington to John Tyler), with the Declaration rendered in small calligraphic text above facsimile signatures, surrounded by an elaborate decorative border depicting the presidents and the seals of the 13 original states. This second edition, circa 1845, added Polk and a view of the U.S. Capitol, and a third edition, circa 1849, replaced the Capitol with Zachary Taylor.
