How to Evaluate Antique Books
Discovering an antique book can be an exciting experience, particularly if it is potentially valuable or a collector's item. Unfortunately, some old books have little to no worth other than potentially being a good read. If you are curious about an antique book in your collection, there are ways that you can evaluate its value.
- Take into consideration what type of book it is and its level of importance or rarity. Most often, books on the science, the humanities and great works of fiction are most valued. Antique books that have been repeatedly mass-produced will have less value than other works.
- Look at the condition of the book. Books that are in fine condition will be free of tears, missing and/or bent pages, markings and will have the original binding intact. Books that have been rebound are generally of lesser value than those that have not.
- Check what edition the book is. Generally, first edition books are of the most value.
- Look for a signature or inscription from the author or any famous person who may have previously owned the book. This could significantly add to the overall value of the book if it can be authenticated.
- Locate a qualified individual to evaluate the authenticity and value of your book. To accomplish this, go to the Antiquarian Booksellers' Association of America (ABAA) website and search for booksellers or antiquarians who are knowledgeable on the type of antique book in your possession. They will either be able to evaluate your book for you or refer you to the appropriate individual that can.
- Include important information when requesting an evaluation, such as the title of the book, the author, its edition and the date of publication. Additionally, there will often be a fee; therefore, you should also inquire on the cost of the evaluation.
- Take a photo of the title page, the copyright page, the outer cover (both front and back) and the first and last page. According to the Smithsonian Institution Libraries Information on Old Books, this may be necessary if you are unable to show the book in person.
TIPS
- To prevent damaging a fragile antique book, avoid pressing it into a photocopier if images are necessary.