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Gavels 'n' Paddles: First edition, The Federalist, $223,500, PBA Galleries

Gavels 'n' Paddles: First edition, The Federalist, $223,500, PBA Galleries

Results of Recent Auctions From Near and Far
by Ken Hall
A rare first edition copy of The Federalist (1788), one of only 500 printed and considered the most important book in the political history of the U.S., sold for $223,500 at an auction held May 31st by PBA Galleries in San Francisco. Also, a presentation copy of Jonathan Mayhew’s book A Discourse, bearing the signature of John Adams, brought $10,800; and a typed letter signed by J. Edgar Hoover in 1942, written to FDR advisor Harry Hopkins on FBI stationery, rose to $10,200. Prices include the buyer’s premium.

Gavels ‘n’ Paddles: First edition, The Federalist, $223,500, PBA Galleries