An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations

This is a rare, early edition of "An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the WEALTH OF NATIONS" by Adam Smith. 1796 2nd American edition; Thomas Dobson; Philadelphia. Complete set in three volumes. Uncommon in original, full-leather binding as issued. Rare, early 2nd American edition of the first great work in political economy (following the 1st American edition in 1789). The work offers one of the world's first collected descriptions of what builds nations' wealth, and is today a fundamental work in classical economics. By reflecting upon the economics at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, the work touches upon such broad topics as the division of labor, productivity, and free markets. (Note: within volume I is an "Advertisement" for the "Third Edition," and one for the "Fourth Edition" - the references to these editions take into account earlier UK publications since the first UK edition of 1776. The set offered here is the 2nd American edition from 1796, following the 1st American edition from 1789.)

Condition:
Ex-library set with the typical treatments (ID labels taped onto the spines; card sleeve, date sheet, modern ID tags on the rear end papers & pastedowns; library "Regulations" sheet affixed to the front pastedowns). Volumes 2 and 3 are tightly bound with no cracks and no loose pages - all covers of these 2 volumes are firmly attached. The front cover of volume 1 has nearly separated and is only attached by the 2 center strings, and by the clear tape over the labels on the spine; the back cover is firmly attached. The back cover of volume 1 has a strip at the left half where the top leather layer has peeled. The top of the volume 1 & 2 spines have wear. All cover corners are worn/rounded. The pages are in generally good condition with age-toning and consistent mild foxing. Overall the set is in Fair condition.