The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin Value Guide

This early 20th-century edition of Benjamin Franklin's autobiography represents a period when Macmillan and other publishers brought this cornerstone of American literature to the masses. Chronicling Franklin's life from 1706 to 1757, these cloth-bound volumes are prized for their historical insights into civic virtue and the American spirit.

What Is The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin Worth?

The typical price range for The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin is $10 - $25 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the cloth binding, specifically looking for fraying at the spine or sun-fading.
• Presence of original illustrations or specific series branding from the 1910-1920 publication run.
• Internal cleanliness, including the absence of foxing, heavy tanning, or previous owner inscriptions.

How to Identify The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin?

• Look for the Macmillan Company imprint or similar early 20th-century US publishers on the title page.
• Verify the cloth binding material and period-appropriate typography typical of the 1910-1920 era.
• Check for the specific narrative cutoff at 1757, as Franklin never formally completed the manuscript.

History of The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin's autobiography is one of the most famous and influential autobiographies ever written. Begun in 1771 but never formally completed, it chronicles Franklin's life from his birth in Boston in 1706 up to 1757, detailing his rise from humble beginnings to a respected statesman, inventor, and writer. The work is famous for its insights into self-improvement, civic virtue, and the American spirit, offering practical advice and moral lessons through anecdotes from Franklin's own experiences. Many editions, like this one from Macmillan, were published throughout the 20th century, making it accessible to generations of readers.