Smallest English Dictionary in the World. Comprising: besides the ordinary and newest words in the language, short explanations of a large number of scientific, philosophical, literary and technical terms. Bryce, David & Son. Glasgow. Circa 1896. Original metal case with magnifier and loop at top. 384 pages.Engraved portrait of Johnson. "Cole's English Dictionary" - front cover and "From Cole's Book Arcade Melbourne" - rear cover. Many leaves with creases; corners slightly worn. Dirt specks in places. Inner hinges cracked but holding firm. Rear endpapers with illegible ownership inscription. 19 x 28 mm. Original red leather. Rubbed and slightly worn - richly patinated. Corners and spine slightly bumped.
On this promotional edition of the 'smallest dictionary in the world' there is "COLE'S ENGLISH DICTIONARY" on the front cover and , but not in every example, "FROM COLE'S BOOK ARCADE MELBOURNE" on the back -one of three Australian promo editions known. Cole's Arcade was a heavily promoted late Victorian bookshop, the largest in the world at that time.
Bondy, 106. Garbett, 25. Pistner, B233:7. Spielmann, 464. Welsh, 2406.