That's not to say it doesn't have personal value. It might have belonged to someone who was important to you or it might be something you've had since childhood.
Here are some guidelines to follow when looking for the value of an old book.
- Is it a first edition, a first printing?
- Is it signed or inscribed.
- Is it rare? (You can't find copies on the popular book selling sites).
- Is it in good condition? (Tight binding, no dog-eared pages, no missing pages, etc.
- An old book that was originally produced with a dustjacket will be worth less if the jacket is no longer avaliable.
- Ex-library books and book clubs or books that have been remaindered by the publisher.
- The book has been written in or highlighted.
Naturally, you can't always expect to find hundred-year-old books in fine or mint condition (but they are around).
Here are some examples of books in fine condition. (click on the link for descriptions):
Here are some examples of hard-to-find books that are in fair or poor condition but still have value.
When you check the links, be sure to note the descriptions.
Got questions? Feel free to post in the comments area or drop us an email at plazabookslasvegas@gmail.com
Click here to read part one of this article.