Benjamin Franklin. "B. Free Franklin" as as Deputy Postmaster for the Colonies on folded cover addressed in his hand to "Abel James Esq., Mercht., Philadelphia", route directive in Franklin's hand "Via N York pr. Packet", red London "Free" in circle handstamp, brown "2/DE" Bishop's mark applied on back at origin, black "NEW/YORK" handstamp and matching "FE 7" Franklin mark applied on arrival, docketing on flap reads "London 2 Decr. 1772 Benja. Franklin to Abel James", some splitting along folds and some minor restoration mostly along vertical file folds

VERY FINE APPEARANCE. A HIGHLY DESIRABLE FORM OF BENJAMIN FRANKLIN'S FREE FRANK WITH THE "B. FREE FRANKLIN" SYNTAX. CARRIED FREE OF PACKET CHARGES AND INTERNAL POSTAGE.

It is rare to find a Benjamin Franklin free frank with the year date from his time in England. The recipient, Abel James, was a friend of Franklin's, a book collector and a member of the Friendly Association for Regaining and Preserving Peace with the Indians by Pacific Measures. He was exiled to Winchester Va. in 1777 for refusing to support the American Revolution.

Image Magnifier / Download

Power Search for Comparables