FRANKLIN, BENJAMIN. 1706-1790.


Experiments and Observations on Electricity, made at Philadelphia in America ... to which are added, Letters and Papers on Philosophical Subjects. London: for David Henry and sold by Francis Newbery, 1769. 4to (247 x 187 mm). Half-title, advertisement and errata leaf, 7 engraved plates, 2 folding. Contemporary boards, uncut. Some chipping to backstrip. Light browning to text and plates. FIRST COLLECTED EDITION, and fourth edition of Franklin's most important scientific publication. "This edition is especially important because it includes additional material not present in the first edition of 1751" (Norman). "The most important scientific book of 18th century America" (PMM). This edition is the first to include complete notes on all of Franklin's important experiments on electricity. Norman 830; Howes F-320; PMM 199; Sabin 25506; Wellcome III, p 62.