1739 – Famous Scottish Thesaurus | Enormous First Edition, Illustrated Coins & Charters

Selectus diplomatum & numismatum Scotiæ thesaurus by James Anderson is an enormous 1739 folio compilation of medieval Scottish coins, charters, seals, and numismatics. This work covers royal decrees dating from Duncan II through the reign of James I. Edited with notes by Thomas Ruddiman, this work is notable not only for its substantial size but also for the dozens of full-page engravings and facsimiles. This first edition remains cited in later historical and legal studies concerning medieval Scotland.

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Selectus diplomatum & numismatum Scotiæ thesaurus: in duas partes distributus
• Author(s): James Anderson
• Contributor(s): Thomas Ruddiman (Editor; Notes)
• Publisher: Apud Tho. & Walt. Ruddimannos, Edinburgi
• Edition: First edition, 1739
• Binding: Full leather, professionally restored hinges
• Format: Folio, single volume
• Size:  19 in x 12 in (48 cm x 30.5 cm)
• Collation: viii, 126 pp
• Illustrations: CLXXX engraved plates
• Contents Include:
  • Medieval Scottish royal charters
  • Legal deeds and instruments
  • Scottish coins and seals
  • Editorial notes by Thomas Ruddiman

Condition:

Good. Restored leather binding remains secure, with a complete text block and plates present. Cover leather and corners show wear and rubbing. General wear aligns with age and format.

Why Collect This?

• First edition Scottish documentary elephant folio
• Extensive engraved plate series
• Longstanding reference for medieval Scotland

Item Number: #50058