Q&A for How to Find the Value of Old Books

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  • Question
    I have a book, The Origin of Species, volume 2, 1889, is it worth a lot?
    Community Answer
    Yes, any book before 1900 is a collectors dream. Find one, and you can get well over what it's worth.
  • Question
    How can I find out how much my copy of Mein Kampf is worth?
    Emma Miklášová
    Community Answer
    Try googling it on sales sites, such as eBay or Amazon. If you can, try consulting a bookseller or a specialist.
  • Question
    If a rare book is missing its dust jacket, is it still worth anything?
    Community Answer
    Quite possibly, yes, depending on how rare the book is and whether you can find the right collector. Dust jackets often deteriorate anyway and are not the most important part of the book.
  • Question
    Where can I find out if children's books written in the 1930s, 1940s or even the 1970s have monetary value to anyone now?
    Community Answer
    Take them to a history shop or book appraiser to find out their worth.
  • Question
    If the price is cut off from the inside dust cover of a book, does that reduce its worth?
    Community Answer
    If it's only a small cut, then probably not, unless there was something notable about the price or the dust cover itself. (Most early dust covers did not survive, and some of them are worth more than their books.) Depending on other wear, tear, and marks on the book, it may tip it from "as new" to "excellent," or "excellent" to "very good."
  • Question
    Etruscan art/ Tarquinius Frescoes, 1961. Is the book worth anything or of any importance?
    Charlize Barnes
    Community Answer
    It's hard to say. Go to get it authenticated and go to book stores to see if there's any interest.
  • Question
    How do I find the value of old books when I can't find information on it?
    Community Answer
    You can usually take it to an appraiser or do some more looking around on the internet.
  • Question
    Where can I find a site online that tells the value of children's books, specifically Little Golden Books?
    Community Answer
    You can check eBay, or just google the title of the book and the year of publication and see what pops up.
  • Question
    How can I find the publication date of my *Pride and Prejudice* book?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    To find the date of your *Pride and Prejudice* book, check the title or copyright pages for the publication year. Look for details like the publisher's name or edition information. The binding style or material can also hint at the time period. Search online using the publisher's details to find similar editions, or consult a rare book dealer or library for help.
  • Question
    How can I determine the value of my 1800s personal notebook containing poems, clippings, and art from the original author?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    To determine the value of your 1800s personal notebook, consult a rare book dealer for an appraisal. You can also contact auction houses like Sotheby’s or Bonhams, which specialize in unique historical items. Research similar items on platforms like AbeBooks or eBay for market value insights. A local historian or appraiser might also offer valuable input, especially if the author is known. Preserve the notebook in an acid-free environment to maintain its condition.
  • Question
    What is the value of a 1932 editorial copy of *Forlorn Island* by Edison Marshall without a dust jacket?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    It is likely valued between $5 and $20. The absence of a dust jacket and the book's condition can affect its value. For a precise valuation, consider consulting a rare book dealer or appraiser.
  • Question
    How can I find the value of my 1881 *Elementary Arithmetic* book?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    That's a valuable piece of educational history. Similar books from the 1880s are worth $5 to $20, depending on condition and rarity. Check platforms like eBay or AbeBooks for comparable listings. For an accurate appraisal, consult a rare book dealer. Even if its monetary value is modest, its historical significance is important, so consider preserving it properly.
  • Question
    What is the value of my 1903 edition of "Pride and Prejudice"?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    It could be valuable, especially if it's the renowned "Peacock Edition" illustrated by Hugh Thomson. The value depends on factors like condition and specific edition. For instance, a 1903 Peacock Edition in very good condition is listed at £1,750, while another is available for $350. To determine the exact value of your copy, consult a rare book dealer or appraiser who can assess its unique attributes.
  • Question
    What is the value of a 1874 edition of *Manual of Medical Emergencies* by William Paul Swain?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    It's probably worth between $40 and $50, depending on its condition and rarity. Check similar listings on eBay or AbeBooks for a better idea. Consult a rare book dealer for an accurate appraisal, as values depend on market demand and the book's specific features.
  • Question
    Is my copy of Richard Scarry's *What Do People Do All Day?* with its pages printed in reverse order worth anything?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    It may have added value as a printing error. Standard editions are worth $5 to $25, but errors can attract collectors. Check eBay or consult a rare book dealer for an appraisal. Value depends on condition and collector interest.
  • Question
    Is my 1930 facsimile reproduction of E.E. Vidal's 1820 book, *Picturesque Illustrations of Buenos Ayres and Monte Video,* valuable?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    Your book is a 1930 reprint rather than the original 1820 edition. Facsimiles are generally less valuable than originals, typically worth $50 to $150 depending on condition and demand. For a more accurate appraisal, check eBay or consult a rare book dealer.
  • Question
    What is the value of Hans Andersen's Fairy Tales?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    The value of your copy of *Hans Andersen's Fairy Tales* depends on factors like its publication date, edition, condition, and any unique features. A 1945 edition illustrated by Arthur Szyk is listed for $25.23, and a 1932 edition with illustrations by Kay Nielsen is available for $19.99. First editions or those with special illustrations can be more valuable. To determine the exact value of your book, consider consulting a rare book dealer or appraiser who can assess its specific attributes.
  • Question
    Is my Bible dated 1766, published in Edinburgh, Scotland by Alexander Donaldson, very rare?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    Your 1766 Bible published in Edinburgh by Alexander Donaldson might be rare, as 18th-century Bibles are sought after, especially if in good condition with original bindings. Its rarity depends on the version, edition, and condition. Donaldson published affordable books to compete with monopolies, so some editions were widely printed. To confirm its rarity and value, consult an antique book expert or compare it to similar listings on rare book websites.
  • Question
    How can I determine the publishing date if there is no copyright page? I have the Oz series, and I suspect they are from the 1930s, but there are none of the usual data points to reference.
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    Check the publisher’s name and address, compare illustrations and covers to known editions, and look for ads or unique binding styles. You can also research online using keywords or consult a rare book dealer or librarian for expert advice.
  • Question
    I have an 1865 book called *Surgical Procedures* in poor condition but intact. The first page contains an inscription to Florence Nightingale, although I cannot decipher the sender's name.
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    Your 1865 book *Surgical Procedures* with an inscription to Florence Nightingale could be highly valuable, even in poor condition, due to its historical significance. To determine its value, consult a rare book dealer or auction house specializing in historical books. Verify the inscription's authenticity with a handwriting expert or historian. Preserve the book carefully to maintain its condition, as its connection to Nightingale makes it highly collectible.
  • Question
    What is the value of my 1915 edition of *The Silver Skates* by Mary Mapes Dodge, signed by the author?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    It may be worth $28 to $55, depending on its condition. First editions or well-preserved copies are more valuable. Check similar listings on eBay or AbeBooks, or consult a rare book dealer for an accurate appraisal. Signed copies typically attract more interest from collectors.
  • Question
    I have a book from 1692 that a family gave me. Could it be worth much? I'm not sure if I want to sell it.
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    A book from 1692 could be valuable depending on its condition, rarity, author, and historical importance. Identify the book by its title, author, and publisher, and check for unique features. Look for ownership marks or records to understand its history. Consult a rare book dealer or auction house for an appraisal. Research similar books online on sites like AbeBooks to estimate its value. Even if you don’t sell it, knowing its value can help you preserve it properly.
  • Question
    I have an old copy of *Alice in Wonderland*. What is its approximate value?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    The value of your *Alice in Wonderland* book depends on its edition, year, and condition. First editions from 1865 are extremely rare and worth thousands, while later editions from the late 19th or early 20th century range from $100 to $500. Check the publisher, year, and edition markings to identify it. Compare similar listings on eBay or AbeBooks, or consult a rare book dealer for an accurate appraisal. Condition significantly affects value.
  • Question
    Is the "King's Edition" of "The Privateersman" by Captain Marryat worth anything?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    The value of "The Privateersman" by Captain Frederick Marryat varies based on factors like edition, condition, and rarity. For instance, a limited edition from the 1890s in very good condition is listed at $7.50. However, without specific details about your "King's Edition," it's challenging to provide an exact valuation. To determine its worth, consider consulting a rare book dealer or appraiser who can assess its unique attributes.
  • Question
    What is the value of *A Political and Civil History of the United States* by Timothy Pitkin, published in 1828?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    Your 1828 book *A Political and Civil History of the United States* by Timothy Pitkin is valued between $92 and $150, depending on condition and completeness (both volumes increase value). Check listings on AbeBooks or eBay for comparison, or consult a rare book dealer for an accurate appraisal.
  • Question
    Are old paperbacks like *Gone with the Wind* worth anything?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    Old paperbacks, like *Gone with the Wind*, can have some value depending on factors such as the edition, condition, and demand. First editions, especially hardcover versions, are typically more valuable. Paperback editions are generally worth less unless they are rare, in excellent condition, or have unique features like early printing marks or original covers. Check sites like eBay or AbeBooks to compare similar listings and get a sense of their value.
  • Question
    Where can I sell a large collection of early 1900s children's books, such as those by Enid Blyton, Burgess, Benton, Honey Bunch, Bobbsey Twins, Hardy Boys, and Nancy Drew?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    You can sell your books on eBay, AbeBooks, or Etsy. Additionally, consider contacting rare book dealers, joining book fairs, using auction houses, or advertising locally to collectors. Consignment shops may also sell them for a commission.
  • Question
    Is my 1889 *Wide Awake Pleasure Book* a first edition and valuable if that's the only copyright date mentioned?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    It could be a first edition if that's the only copyright date. Its value depends on condition, rarity, and demand. Check similar listings on eBay or AbeBooks, or ask a rare-book dealer for an appraisal.
  • Question
    How can I find the value of my 1924 second edition book, *A Dangerous Crossing* by Emma Shephard Hill?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    Your 1924 second edition of *A Dangerous Crossing* by Emma Shephard Hill is likely worth $20 to $50, depending on its condition and rarity. First editions or signed copies are more valuable. Check similar listings on sites like eBay or AbeBooks, or consult a rare book dealer for an accurate appraisal.
  • Question
    How do I find the value of my old books if the cover was placed upside down?
    Snakey006550
    Top Answerer
    Books with upside-down covers are binding errors and may be valuable to collectors. To find their value, check the book's normal market value online, look for similar binding errors on sites like eBay or AbeBooks, ask a rare book dealer or appraiser, and join collector groups for advice. The value depends on demand and the book's rarity.
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