The Art of Making Money Plenty in Every Man’s Pocket.

FRANKLIN, Benjamin.

Item Number: 72004

Rare early printing of Franklin’s famous rebus. Single leaf broadside printed and steel engraved on laid paper, engraved image at top of sheet of Franklin in a fur cap. The rebus is instructive in the positive monetary possibilities of honesty and frugality. Triple matted and framed. The entire piece measures 14.5 inches by 18 inches.

The rebus reads: "At this time when the general complaint is that money is so scarce it must be an act of kindness to inform the moneyless how they can reinforce their pockets. I will acquaint all with the true secret of money catching, the certain way to fill empty purses and how to keep them always full. Two simple rules well observed will do the business: 1st. Let honesty and labor be thy constant companions; 2nd. Spend one penny every day less than thy dear gains. Then shall thy pockets soon begin to thrive, thy creditors will never insult thee, nor want oppress, nor hunger bite, nor nakedness freeze thee. The whole hemisphere will shine brighter, and pleasure spring up in every corner of thy heart. Now thereby embrace these rules and be Happy."