how do i find out how much and old book is worth?

Question

i have 1845 first edition edgar allen poe, complete poetical works of edgar allen poe

Answer 1

I think the only way to find out how much an old book is worth, one needs to find an antique appraiser who specializes in books, ephemera, 1st edition books, manuscripts, and etc. I, too need a book appraiser. I have an old 1st edition of a popular book i've tried researching...

Usually, an item especially a book, may only be considered valuable by a few people.

I've used Alibris.com in the past to check up on their selling prices.

Another way to go is to just post a reserved price listing on Ebay. Keep the reserve price high, even a ridiculously high price, just to see how much people are bidding...and if you don't like any of the bids, you don't need to sell the item. If they meet or exceed your price, you do have to honor their bid and sell it....

Answer 2

Not my area of expertise, but my first move would be to do an online search and see what others are asking for books of similar age, condition, and significance. You could also get estimates from resellers and antique book dealers but bear in mind they will be looking at reserving a profit margin for resale. Best bet is to network; find an expert friend-of-friend to give you the real scoop on who to contact and what to ask.

Answer 3

You should contact a book-dealer who deals in rare books on the Internet. Two opinions would be better. There are book- dealers in larger towns. Check the phone book or ask a librarian.

Answer 4

Try to sell it on ebay.com