Boston Rare Maps, one of the country’s premier specialists in rare and unusual antique maps, announces the acquisition of an important and highly sought-after 1784 map by Jean Lattré, noted as the first map of the independent United States.  The map, a rare variant including text panels describing the “principal events” of the American Revolution, will highlight Boston Rare Maps’ offerings at this year’s Miami International Map Fair, taking place February 4-5, 2012.  For additional information, please visit www.BostonRareMaps.com or call (413) 527-4020.

This famous map, which appeared in June 1784, is the first of the independent United States.  It was printed just a few months after the country gained official independence through the final ratification of the Treaty of Paris by the United States in February 1784 and Great Britain in April of the same year.

Flanking the map are panels of text giving a year-by-year, colony-by-colony account of the American Revolution.  These panels were printed on separate sheets and were pasted to the map’s left and right-hand margins, but few surviving impressions are known with the text intact.  Only four copies with the complete original text have been identified:  one at the Library of Congress, another at the Library of the Society of the Cincinnati, one in a private American collection, and this example. The map was separately issued and is rare in any condition, making this beautiful specimen a coveted addition to any collection.     

The exquisite cartouche contains the title as well as the dedication to Franklin, superimposed upon the foresail of what appears to be a Ship of State.  A seaman hangs emblems of the new United States along the fore topsail, including the Great Seal and the insignia of the Order of the Cincinnati.

In addition to this extraordinary piece, Boston Rare Maps will also present a host of additional rare and unusual antique maps.  Included in the selection will be the first printed map of Washington, D.C.; a rare 18th-century plan of New York City; and a broadside commemorating the completion of the Atlantic Telegraph.  Additional antique maps and historic broadsides are available to view at www.BostonRareMaps.com.

About Boston Rare Maps

Boston Rare Maps specializes in rare and unusual vintage and antique maps depicting all periods of American history.  They offer American historical prints, city views and a growing selection of illustrated broadsides.  They also serve a wide variety of clients, including private collectors and institutional map collections, as well as those seeking just a few special pieces for themselves or as gifts to clients, friends or family. 

Editor’s Note:  • Background and additional digital color images available.

   • Support for feature development on rare maps available.

   • Interviews with gallery owner Michael Buehler are encouraged.