Benjamin Franklin

It's almost easier to list the things Franklin didn't do, than try and inventory the fruits of his restless brilliance. Along with Jefferson, he was at the forefront of the Enlightenment, and though his grandest passion was reserved for the founding and development of our fledgling nation, he still had enough brains and creativity left over to qualify as an inventor, scientist, author, and philosopher. He, more than any of the founding fathers, rubbed elbows with the most famous luminaries of his time, including Joseph Priestly, and reknowned skeptic philosopher David Hume. He was Europe's darling, and as ambassador to France, was instrumental in securing critical French support for the American Revolution.

Born in Boston in January, 1706, Franklin learned printing from his older brother and soon became a successful newspaper editor, printer, and merchant in Philadelphia. Under the pseudonym "Poor Richard" he published the often satirical and always popular Poor Richard's Almanac, and the Pennsylvania Gazette. As Poor Richard he said things like "A penny saved is a penny earned" (actually he said ""A penny saved is twopence dear"); and "Fish and visitors stink in three days." He also took a few minutes to form both the first public lending library and fire department in America.

In five languages he could discuss with you his inventions including bifocals, the lightning rod, and what became known as the "Franklin" stove. Franklin worked with Timothy Folger, his cousin and experienced Nantucket whaler captain, to chart the Gulf Stream, the name he gave it. Eventually, skeptical English sea captains began to navigate using Franklin's Gulf Stream path, gaining valuable sailing time.

Like all the founding fathers he was dedicated to the idea of Republicanism-not to be confused with modern Republicans, or Democrats. A sense of equality, civic duty, and virtuous behavior, were sufficient to be an American; anything less was not acceptable. America was in fact a "no spin" zone then. As Washington had responded to a question by the foreman in charge of building Mt. Vernon as to what types of workman might be hired: "If they be good workmen, they may be from Asia, Africa, or Europe; they may be Mohammedans, Jews, or Christians of any sect, or they may be atheists." For nation's founders it was paramount that if any person be a good citizen, then their faith did not matter, ever mindful they had just fought a war to insure just that condition.

An active abolitionist in later life, Franklin died at the age of 84 in 1790. He was the only Founding Father whose signature in found on all four of the major documents of the founding of the United States: the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Paris, the Treaty of Alliance with France, and the United States Constitution.

Often called the "semi-key" pass to the whole portrait set, the Franklin, along with the Handel, was printed after the original four, and was only with the "A". There were a total of around 125,000 of the Franklin passes printed, and that, and their gorgeous violet seal, and vibrant tangerine reverse make them a valuable and scarce component to the entire set. This note is in superior condition, as shown.

$179.00

Bright Color, no distraction

Franklin Couldn't Have Designed It Better Himself!

Uncirculated

$179.00

No Problem Beauty!

Uncirculated And Perfect For A
High-End Collection Or Unique Gift!

$169.00

Vibrant, square corners, and no flaws. Almost un-visible trace of left margin residue on reverse right margin make it a great buy. Perhaps can not be seen in photo, shows only as faint toning. no shine and no depth to it. Beautiful note.

$149.00