I have an Old Book that I would like to know about?

Question

The book, Harper’s Pictorial History of the War with Spain [New York: Harper & Brothers Publishers, 1899] written by Major General Nelson A. Miles. According to findagrave.com, he was born 8/8/1839 and died 5/15/1925. He is interred at Arlington, Section 3, Lot 1873. My neighbor showed me this and said that it was handed down in his family and wanted to know if I could give him any value, historical significance....ANY info would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

Antique Roadshow is the only DEPENDABLE source I know of, but Good luck and happy holidays!

Answer 2

Hello.
The author, General Nelson A. Miles, was a very famous Army soldier from the Civil War, through the Indian campaigns, to commander of the US Army in the Spanish American War.

Born in Massachusetts in 1839, Miles began his military career in the Union Army in the Civil War. At age 25, he was eventually put in command of the 2nd Corps of the Army. Later, in the 1870s and 1880s, he led successful campaigns against Native American tribes, and defeated such notable figures as Geronimo, Sitting Bull, and Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe. In 1895, he was named Commanding General of the U.S. Army, a post he would retain though the Spanish-American War.

REgarding the book: The value depends, of course, on the condition of the book, and whether or not it is first edition, or has the original dustjacket, and whether or not it is worn or damaged or stained. Currently on the Internet there are about six copies of this book (books) in various editions and conditions from $150 to $600. You can check them out, and see if your book' condition are similar to those for sale.

Type in the title and author to the search box in abebooks.com , a website for more than 1,200 book dealers across America.

Good luck. John B.

Answer 3

When I wanted to know the value of a book,I went to e-bay to see what copies were selling for.Your book may be rare and of historical significance.I would contact antiquarian booksellers or an a reputable book dealer.If Antiques Roadshow is coming to area soon you may be able to get an appraisal.

Answer 4

Do a search on "book sellers". Any reputable dealer would be able to give you a quote. HOWEVER, realize that books are one of those "collector" items that frequently prices to what you can get for it. One buyer might offer you $15. The next, $1,500.

Answer 5

Amazon.com has this publication listed at starting $625.00 a book dealer may give you half that depending on condition etc.

Answer 6

You might want to post your question with the Librarian at the Library of Congress' website at: loc.gov and see what that site gives you.

Answer 7

try looking up the name of the book, the publisher, etc...