Economics & Social Sciences
[LOWNDES, William.]
A report containing an essay for the amendment of the silver coins.
London, printed by Charles Bill, and the executrix of Thomas Newcomb. 1695. . First and only edition. 8vo (12.5 x 20.5cm) 159, [1]pp., title-page with woodcut Royal arms, a fine copy in original black morocco, both boards with decorative gilt panels with cornerpieces, borders ruled with double gilt fillet, spine elaborately gilt in compartments with circular devices, marbled endpapers, all edges gilt. A fine copy, presumably bound for presentation.
The best known work of the treasury official William Lowndes (1652-1724). Towards the end of the seventeenth century "the practice of 'clipping' hammered silver coin had reached the point where it was seriously affecting the Treasury's ability to pay its way in the war with France, and in late 1694 confidence in the silver coinage weakened dramatically. A complete reminting of the coinage was now imperative ... as the situation grew more urgent, Lowndes was instructed by the Treasury board in August to prepare a detailed scheme for recoinage ... By mid-September his 'book', 'A Report Containing an Essay for the Amendment of the Silver Coins', was in Treasury hands. It embodied the Commons committee's resolutions and was fleshed out with much historical detail ..." (ODNB). This fine copy appears to have been presented to Henry Lyddell, member of parliament for Durham city in the third parliament of King William (1695-98), who has placed his signature on the front endpaper, dating it 21 November [16]95. Wing L3323; Goldmiths' 3131; Kress 1908.
Price: £ 1750
US Dollar Price: $ 3470
Stock Number: 58340