Privately Printed


The Art of Virtue: From the Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin Begun at Passy in 1784

The Art of Virtue: From the Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin Begun at Passy in 1784

Benjamin Franklin

New York: Privately Printed, 1955. 39 pp. 4 1/2 x 7". LIMITED EDITION of 350 copies. Red paper over boards, with gilt title on cover and spine, original onionskin wrap torn and missing a few sections, some small stain on paper fore-edges only to several pages, otherwise, in very good condition.

This little book was made as a keepsake in connection with The Celebration of Printing Week, commemorating the 248h birthday of B. Franklin, Printer. It is primarily about his efforts at self-development. Turns out that young Benjamin was rather self-centered and headstrong and it was through cultivated personal growth, as relayed in this book, that he became more respected, diplomatic, and beloved.

Privately Printed
$ 30.00 USD