"THE FIRST AND GREATEST CLASSIC OF MODERN ECONOMIC THOUGHT"

SMITH, Adam. An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations. London: A. Strahan, T. Cadell, and W. Davies, 1799. Three volumes. Octavo, modern full blue morocco gilt, raised bands, marbled endpapers, all edges gilt. $6000.

Ninth edition of Smith’s landmark work—"probably the most important book which has ever been written" (Buckle). An attractively bound copy.

"Where the political aspects of human rights had taken two centuries to explore, Smith's achievement was to bring the study of economic aspects to the same point in a single work… it is the first and greatest classic of modern economic thought" (PMM 221). Buckle's History of Civilization calls Wealth of Nations "probably the most important book which has ever been written," while economist J.A.R. Mariott asserts that "there is probably no single work in the language which has in its day exercised an influence so profound." First published in 1776. Bound with half titles. Kress B2209. Goldsmiths 17550. Palgrave III:116. ESTC T95382. Owner signatures on half titles.

Faint stain to title page of Volume III, interiors generally quite clean; full morocco bindings fine and attractive.