Antiquarian books are collectors items and often extremely rare. There are not that many books that can be truly classified as antiquarian and they are not usually available from mainstream bookstores. They are available from firms that specialise in these types of books. The type of book sold from these stores -- which are sometimes available from online catalogues as well as at physical locations -- are often first or special editions. They are also more likely to be available in hardback so can be expensive to order through the post because of their weight. There are very much older books that can be bought in original print that are hundreds of years old, but also newer books that are also collectors items because they have autographs of authors or indeed an autograph by the subject (if a biography). Included in these collections may be related memorabilia such as items belonging to an author, pictures, paintings and photographs.

Most antiquarian booksellers are associated with the International League of Antiquarian Booksellers which encompasses around twenty national associations and around thirty two countries. It endorses legitimate Antiquarian Booksellers and also lists the leading booksellers. It ensures high standards of professionalism and integrity. Thus, books sold by booksellers associated with this organisation are more likely to reflect a true and accurate market value.

What to Look For when Browsing
Antiquarian books are often complete with a full description if looking through a catalogue. If you do not have a full description it is essential to find out more about the book's features as these can determine the true value of the book. First of all the edition of the book is vital as first editions or rare translations are generally worth the most in value. You should also check how the book has been bound as hardback bindings are generally worth more in value, particularly if in good condition. You should check to see whether the book originally came with a dust jacket -- if it is still there, the book's value will automatically be increased yet will decrease if it should be there and is missing. The spine should also be checked to see whether the lettering has been woven in cloth or printed on. Cloth lettering or an unusual designs offer potentially greater value as does a spine with minimal or no damage. The paper and ink which are used also affect value, particularly if they are of unusual and distinctive design. Most of this information can be gleaned from looking at the book but it is important to check inside for the following: some books also contain rare illustrations or photographs which can increase market value, particularly if the artist has acquired a high standing in their field. Other things to look out for are autographs from the author, leaf advertising, printer's notes or original advertising within the book.

Market Values
The market value of antiquarian books begins at less than 10 for first editions of books by relatively unknown writers, particularly if it is not in perfect condition. It is unlikely that you would expect to pay too much for books published post 1960 (unless highly specialised and of historical interest), even if a first edition. It is however worth noting the number of copies from that edition: if it is less than 500 (declared by most Antiquarians or alternatively researched online or at a library) it may increase in value as it becomes older and as other copies become lost or damaged over time.

First editions are not to be confused with when the text was originally written. There are some first editions of books written a long time prior to this. However, if a first edition was part of a run of less than 500 or so, the book will in all likelihood be worth far more, regardless as to whether the author is well known or not. Books printed from around 1900 can usually fetch a price around 50 although other factors will affect this. However, an unknown author, first or special edition in reasonable condition should be around this market value. Yet some books can fetch a far higher price, particularly if from particular printing houses or if translated for the first time into English. Illustrations and translations by Norman and Jack Lindsay, for example, might fetch more than triple this amount. What should also be considered are popular collector's items and books of nostalgic interest such as a children's book. For example, comic books and comic art have increased significantly in value and associated books and magazines have also increased dramatically in value as a result, in particular the Girls Annual and Eagle Annual in original red hardback form.

Famous Authors and Books
Books written by famous authors have a greater market value. A rare edition of a Shakespeare play, particularly where there have only been a limited number of copies, will readily fetch more than a hundred pounds -- even the Valenti Angelo edition from the 1960s is worth more than 100. On the other hand translations into English also fetch a higher price if translated from a famous author such as Baudelaire or Barthes. Often these books will be complete with the signature of the translator as sometimes even fewer than 100 books were translated in the first edition as a test to see if the author could cross cultures and sustain interest in another country. These books can also be worth more than 100. Other rare or unusual books that closely document famous people or events are also of high value. Famous plays, operas, ballets and other aspects of Art that uncover fresh views, pictures, copies of original fliers and so on can also be sold for a high price.

Buying the Book
When buying an antiquarian book it is best to check the description or to look over the book in arriving at a rough estimate of its value. This is a specialist marketplace, requiring expert knowledge in valuing a particular item. Don't hesitate to seek an independent valuation if you are in ANY doubt. If buying online, you should email the seller and get any details not listed. While the International League of Antiquarian Books provides a list of sellers and is a good yardstick for a price on a book you may wish to purchase, you may still be able to get a bargain from a second hand bookstore or a book sold online cheaply that turns out to be a real collector's item
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