Antique History Book?

Question

Does anyone know anything about old history books? This one is so old that it is sowen together with thread.And it says its copyrighted in the 1800's. It tells about each state but there were only 34 or 36 states. And tells about each president's birth and death. Any idea how much it is worth? Does copyrighted mean the year it was published, or is it a reproduction? I think it is only about 8 inches tall and 1 inch thick. I would apprieciate any help.
Thank you

Answer 1

The fact that it is sewn doesn't mean anything -- books are still sewn. There are also oodles of 1800's books out there -- very few are rare or extremely valuable. The fact that is a textbook (if that is what it is) makes it less valuable.

Try to find the same title/edition at an online used book dealer. Try bestbookbuys.com, alibris.com or abebooks.com. Their prices, although asking rather than selling prices, will give you an idea.

Look in your yellow pages or online for a used/rare book dealer in your town. They might give you clues as well.

The copyright date is the earliest edition the book could be. It could be much later. Books that are reprinted at a later date, but do not change any of the contents, will not necessarily have a new copyright date. Although, I suspect a book with lists of states, presidents and their birthdays would be updated before being reprinted.

It all boils down to the condition of the book, its rarity, and how many people want a copy, i.e. what you can sell it for.

Answer 2

You'll probably need to take digital pics, and post them on an antiquarian book sellers/readers web site to find out more info. Check the antique book section of ebay, for the date range your book is for... If it has pictures or maps it will be worth more.

Try here, :http://listings.ebay.com/_W0QQsocmdZListingItemList?pfid=1400&gcs=1126&sacat=-100&reqtype=2&socmd=ListingItemList&from=R2&pagetype=2&socdpfcat=-100&pfmode=2&a23715=1225&a23713=18915&alist=a23715%2Ca23713

Then, go into either books between 1800-1850 or 1850-1900, which ever applies. Then, try to find one that's similar.

I need additional info to be more helpful... But, the bottom line, is that its only worth as much as someone is actually willing to pay for it... Keep the book away from light, dust, and dampness... Try to have it preserved, it possible... Maybe speak with your local historical society about a donation, or even the library.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Check with several different rare booksellers(don't rely on any one and get several different opinions). Also you might want to check with the Sothbey's and/or Christie's auction house websites as they are in the business and have experts who can appraise your book better than most antique dealers. Good Luck!