Boston: Oliver Ditson, 1861. Paperback. This is an early edition of the Star Spangled Banner, part of a collection of national songs, the others being Hail Columbia, Yankee Doodle, America, and the Marseilles Hymn. The cover sheet has a lithograph illustration of the crossed flags of the United States and France. In 1861, because of his indignation over the Civil War, a fifth verse was written by Oliver Wendell Holmes. In it he writes of a foe from within that strikes a blow at her glory and down with the traitor that dares to defile the flag. The song did not become America's "Official Song" until 1889, but it was not officially adopted as the nation's anthem until 1931. In good only condition. The pages are separated, tattered at the edges, and has light water stains not affecting the readability. Still a nice copy of this scarce item. MUS/081811. Good.

Item #25227

Price: $325.00