The Union Savings League

Providence: Benjamin Francis Brown, 1888. Oblong 32mo (approx. 2½" x 4"), pp. 46, [2]; section of 24 blank pages for notes bound in after p. 46; hinges starting else a very good example in original morocco-grained paper-covered boards. An early discount book, each leaf devoted to a particular Rhode Island business with scheduled discounts available to those who have paid for the booklet. "The object of this Society is to enable its members to effect a saving in their yearly expenses of from five to twenty percent. Any person of good moral character may become a member and share in its benefits, on payment of the membership fee of 50 cents per year." This booklet is certified as no. 357 and issued to the druggist A. W. Claflin, of Providence, issued January 24, 1889, signed and certified by "B. F. Brown." Among the 50 or so participating businesses are the cabinet-makers Ye Rose Studio (offering as much as 33% off); the tailors Henry W. Hudson & Co. (offering 5%), Hope Rubber Co. (10%), Shepard & Co. Dry Goods (offering 5% on cloaks, suits, and shawls), A. J. Donle, artist in photo crayon, pastel and free hand drawn crayon portraits (20%), and Walter E. Horton, bookbinder (5%). Advertisements for these businesses offering discounts are interspersed with lists of firebox locations, moon phases, postal rates, etc. An early coupon book, of sorts, although the word 'coupon' is not to be seen. The internet tells me that the first coupon ever created was invented by the Coca-Cola company in 1887. The coupons offered a free sample of the year-old drink, which was initially sold for 5 cents. This discount book must be among the very earliest of its kind. Not found in OCLC. Item #61246

Price: $375.00