What an old book can tell you

An old book is more than its publication date. Read its physical clues patiently and keep observation separate from assumption.

Start at the title page

Transcribe the title, author, publisher, place and date exactly as printed. Then check the reverse of the title page and any edition statement. A date on its own does not prove a first printing, and a copyright date need not be the printing date of your copy.

Check the contents

Look for a contents page and list of illustrations. Compare the listed plates, maps and plans with the actual book, allowing for unnumbered leaves. Continuous pagination is useful evidence, but it does not prove that every illustration or inserted item is present. Where possible, compare with a reliable bibliographic description.

Read the marks of ownership

A bookplate, inscription or bookseller’s ticket may help trace a copy’s journey. Transcribe names and dates before researching them. An appealing story is not evidence of a famous owner; a matching name needs corroboration.

Describe condition plainly

Record loose hinges, missing leaves, foxing, annotations and repairs. Separate wear to the book from wear to its jacket. A precise description is more useful than a generous grade with no explanation.

Leave valuation until last

Identify the edition and condition before comparing prices. Asking prices show what sellers hope to receive; they do not show that a comparable copy sold for that amount.