June 6, 2023

Repairing Old Books

Whether to repair or restore a rare book is a question I often think about as rare book dealer. I thought I would share some of my thought process on the subject.

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October 10, 2022

How to find a medieval manuscript treasure

I will discuss in this video the subject of binder’s waste and how you can identify, date, and localize medieval manuscripts found in bookbindings. There are many treasures out there waiting to be discovered. If you have any medieval manuscripts or fragments, feel free to reach out.

posted in: medieval manuscript, Uncategorized

December 22, 2021

What is My Old Book Worth? Rare Book Appraisal

If you are interested in learning the value of your rare books, I made a couple instructional videos that are on Youtube that explain what to look for as well as some rare book pricing databases. If you have any rare books you need me to look at or have specific questions about (yes, I know it gets complicated!), feel free to send photos to WeBuyRareBooks@gmail.com or by text to 646-469-1851.

posted in: Appraisal Manuscript, buying rare books, Old Manuscript Appaisal, RARE BOOK APPRAISAL, Rare Book Appraisal Video, Rare Book Auction Value, Uncategorized

November 9, 2021

Some Fun Rare Book Fakes

We do not have as many ‘fakes’ in the world of rare books as we encounter in other fields, but here are some issues with authenticity I have encountered with recent purchases.

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April 28, 2021

Rare Book Auction.

Rare Book Auctions have been flooding the internet and sometimes overwhelming yours truly. I can only imagine how inundated a book collector feels given the deluge of listings. As part of my Youtube Series on what it is like to be a rare book dealer, here is what goes through my mind when hunting for treasures for stock in auctions these days.

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September 25, 2020

Rare Book Provenance Deep Dive

I’ll look at a rare book on Renaissance cosmetics with provenance of the famous Royal Society. The video is about how rare book dealers look for copies of books with unique compelling stories to tell.

posted in: You Tube Rare Books Video

December 23, 2023

“How Much is Your Old Bible Worth?” – Expertise in Valuing Antique English Bibles Pre-1700

Your Trusted Source for Historical Religious Texts and Bibles

As a experienced rare book dealer and a member of the Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America (ABAA), we offer unparalleled expertise in the acquisition and valuation of rare, historical, and antique religious texts. Our primary focus is on English Bibles printed before the year 1700.

The Legacy of Early English Bibles: A Dealer’s Perspective

  • Tyndale Bible (1525): The groundbreaking English translation of the New Testament from Greek by William Tyndale.
  • Coverdale Bible (1535): Celebrated as the first complete English Bible, comprising both the Old and New Testaments.
  • Geneva Bible (1560): Preferred by English-speaking Protestants in the 16th century, known for its detailed annotations.
  • Bishops’ Bible (1568): A significant precursor to the King James Version, reflecting the religious authority of its time.
  • King James Bible (1611): A seminal translation commissioned by King James I, celebrated for its lasting impact on English literature and religious studies.

Our Services: Assessing the Value of Your Precious Texts

Are you wondering, “How much is my old Bible worth?” As a dedicated rare book dealer, we are actively seeking to purchase English Bibles printed before 1700. We offer competitive market prices, with thorough evaluations based on each item’s condition, rarity, and historical importance.

Free Expert Appraisals: Uncovering the Worth of Your Historical Texts

Own an early English Bible or related historical texts? We provide expert evaluations and appraisals at no cost to you. Send detailed photos to webuyrarebooks@gmail.com or contact us at 646-469-1851 for a professional assessment. Discover the potential value of your historical treasures with our specialized and comprehensive service.

posted in: buying rare books, Old Bibles

December 10, 2023

BUYING Inscribed First Editions and Significant Literary Works

Seeking Inscribed First Editions and Significant Literary Works – Top Prices Offered by an ABAA Rare Book Dealer

As an established ABAA rare book dealer, I am currently buying inscribed first editions and important works of literature. I am looking to acquire these unique and valuable items, offering competitive prices for the right pieces, often higher than can be obtained through rare book auction.

When evaluating inscribed first editions and significant literary works, I consider several critical factors. The author’s significance, the book’s condition, the rarity of the inscription, and the edition’s historical and literary importance are key aspects of my assessment. The context and content of the inscription can greatly enhance the book’s value, especially if it provides unique insights into the author or the work itself. My expertise in rare books ensures a thorough and accurate appraisal of these items.

As a member of the ABAA, I conduct all transactions with the utmost professionalism and integrity. If you possess inscribed first editions or essential works of literature and are considering selling them, I offer free evaluations to help you understand their market value. This service is designed to provide you with a knowledgeable and transparent assessment of your items.

If you are interested in selling your rare literary pieces, please contact me for a prompt and fair evaluation. Send photos of your items to WeBuyRareBooks@gmail.com or text them to 646-469-1851. My commitment is to offer top prices for important books. This is an excellent opportunity for you to sell your inscribed first editions and significant literary works to an experienced and serious dealer.

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December 9, 2023

HOW TO VALUE A RARE BOOK


A Step-by-Step Guide to Evaluating Rare Books by an Experienced ABAA Rare Book Dealer

So, I am experimenting with ChatGPT writing blog posts. Many sites give useful information on how to value an old or rare book. The summary below is entirely written by ChaptGPT. If you need an evaluation outside of AI, but from old fashioned bookseller intelligence ;). feel fee to contact me with photos at webuyrarebooks@gmail.com

As an ABAA rare book dealer with years of experience, I follow a meticulous process to evaluate the value of rare books. This process is comprehensive, considering various aspects that contribute to a book’s worth. Here, I outline the detailed steps and considerations involved, along with references to helpful research websites.

1. Initial Research and Price Comparison: The evaluation starts with initial research, often using websites like AbeBooks, ViaLibri.net, and RareBookHub. These platforms provide a wealth of information on retail asking prices, offering a preliminary idea of a book’s market standing. It’s important to remember that these prices are initial asking prices and may not always reflect the actual market value.

2. Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination of the book is crucial. This includes assessing the book’s condition – examining the binding, pages, dust jackets (if applicable), and any restorations or repairs. The book’s physical state significantly impacts its value.

3. Rarity and Demand: The rarity and demand for the book are next on the list. Factors like the edition (with first editions usually being more valuable), printing history, and the number of copies available are key. The book’s demand among collectors and its current popularity also play a role in determining its value.

4. Historical and Literary Significance: A book’s historical and literary significance is another vital factor. Works that have made a significant impact on literature or culture are often more valuable.

5. Provenance and Association Copies: Provenance, or the book’s ownership history, can add considerable value, particularly if it has connections to notable individuals. Association copies, especially those inscribed or signed by the author to someone of significance, are highly sought after.

6. Market Trends and Comparative Analysis: Understanding current market trends is essential. This involves analyzing recent sale prices of similar books, using the data available on sites like ViaLibri.net and RareBookHub, which provide insights into auction records and private sales.

7. Final Valuation: Combining all these factors, a final valuation is made. This valuation is an informed estimate of the book’s worth in the current market, considering its physical state, rarity, historical significance, and market trends.

If you have a book you’re curious about, please send detailed photos and any known history of the book to weBuyRareBooks@gmail.com or text 646-469-1851 for a professional and comprehensive appraisal, offered free of charge. This service provides you with an expert evaluation of your book’s market value.

In summary, valuing rare books is a complex process that goes beyond surface-level research. It requires expertise in assessing a book’s condition, rarity, historical significance, and understanding the nuances of the current market. As an experienced ABAA rare book dealer, I am here to offer you this expertise and help you uncover the true value of your rare books.

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December 9, 2023

Wanted: Old and Rare Manuscripts


Top Prices Paid for Rare Manuscripts and Handwritten Journals by an ABAA Rare Book Dealer

As an ABAA rare book dealer, I am actively seeking to buy old manuscripts, handwritten journals, and unique sketchbooks, especially illuminated manuscripts and historical manuscripts If you have diaries, text manuscripts, or artistic sketchbooks, I am interested in purchasing these items at highly competitive prices, and often at prices higher than could be obtained at rare book auctions.

Determining the value of an old manuscript involves a detailed process. I consider various factors such as the manuscript’s age, historical significance, rarity, condition, and any unique attributes it may possess. The provenance or history of ownership can also play a crucial role in its valuation. My expertise as an ABAA rare book dealer allows me to assess these aspects accurately, ensuring a fair and informed evaluation of your items. I am a very transparent dealer and always happy to explain my thoughts behind a valuation.

I adhere to the highest standards of professionalism as an ABAA member, ensuring a smooth and ethical transaction process. If you have rare manuscripts or journals that you are looking to sell, I offer free evaluations to determine their market value. This service provides you with an informed basis for any potential sale.

If you’re interested in selling your items, please send photos to WeBuyRareBooks@gmail.com or text 646-469-1851 for a prompt evaluation. I am committed to offering top prices for items. This is a straightforward opportunity to sell your rare manuscripts and journals to a knowledgeable and serious dealer


Here is a detail from a 1920’s occult manuscript I am in love with and currently cataloging for our upcoming ABAA April NY Book Fair

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September 4, 2023

Is My Book Valuable?

Is Your Book Worth Anything? A Simple Guide to Rare Book Valuation

JUST SEND PHOTOS TO : webuyrarebooks@gmail.com or text 646-469-1851

Wondering if your book holds any value? You’re not alone. Many people reach out to us with the same question. This simplified guide aims to help you understand the factors that contribute to a book’s value.

Key Factors in Book Valuation

When assessing the value of a book, consider three main aspects:

  1. Rarity
  2. Condition
  3. Demand

A valuable book generally excels in all three categories. If even one element is missing, the book’s worth may decrease significantly.

Rarity: Age, Scarcity, Special Features

  • Age: Contrary to popular belief, age isn’t always a reliable indicator of a book’s worth.
  • Scarcity: A book’s rarity doesn’t necessarily make it valuable. Some books are rare simply because they were not widely printed, often due to a lack of public interest.
  • Special Features: Books signed by the author or a famous person, limited editions, and books with high-quality leather bindings or hand-colored illustrations are more likely to be valuable.

Condition Matters

  • The condition of a book can dramatically influence its value. For example, a tear in a rare book’s dust jacket could reduce its worth by thousands of dollars.
  • Dust jackets, especially on books published after 1910, are often critical to a book’s value. A missing or damaged dust jacket can decrease a book’s worth by up to 90%.

Demand: The Final Element

  • A book must be in demand to be valuable. Specialists in rare books often use various resources, including auction records and bibliographies, to assess demand.
  • A book’s significance in culture or science can also add to its demand. For instance, Charles Darwin’s “On the Origin of Species” has enduring value due to its scientific importance.

Online Valuations vs. Real-World Prices

While online listings may indicate high prices, remember that these are often just asking prices. Our valuations are based on realistic assessments of a book’s rarity, condition, and demand, along with its expected selling price and timeframe.

Feel free to contact us if you’re interested in selling your book or entire collection. We make all offers in good faith, relying on our expertise and resources to give you the most accurate valuation. JUST SEND PHOTOS TO : webuyrarebooks@gmail.com or text 646-469-1851

So, before you spend hours cataloging your books, use this guide as a preliminary step to gauge their value.

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