| Description |
Eric P. Newman's Original Manuscript For the 1976 Early Paper Money of AmericaRacine, 1976. Second (Bicentennial) edition. Eric P. Newman's extraordinary original manuscript, composed of: heavily annotated leaves from the first edition; new sheets of frequently recycled paper covered with handwritten additions and commentary; handwritten schematics of new designs; clipped illustrations and tables from the first edition pasted up into new layouts; onionskin tracing paper attached to first edition pages specifying changes; and extensive notes regarding every aspect of the text, its illustrations, or the book design itself. These materials offer a unique opportunity to glean the working process of Eric P. Newman, as he worked for years revising his greatest work. The papers make it clear that every aspect of the final revised book had been thought about carefully before decisions were made. Thousands upon thousands of handwritten words are penned on top of or alongside previously printed words. Notes were written by the author to the author, and frequently responded to by the author. A handful of notes and suggestions appear to be from others involved in the book's layout, always responded to by the author (one example: a penciled comment, "suggest reducing cuts somewhat and indicating that in smaller type; 'slightly reduced,' or 'three quarters size' or whatever" has written on top of it in red ink a large "No.") The care that Newman took with developing the new edition of his book is remarkable, and is impressive even to those familiar with his high standards and indefatigable appetite for work. The stack of papers is almost 8 cm high, and each sheet obviously represents hours upon hours of work and rework. Unique and of the greatest importance. Estimate $5,000. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society.
Heritage Auctions 11/2018 (Newman XI), lot15361 (realized $1320).
Heritage link: http://www.ha.com/c/item.zx?saleNo=1283&lotIdNo=11143 |
