Your Guide to Guides: Collected Books The Guide to Values (1998)

Have you ever wondered if that old, dusty book on your shelf is a valuable first edition? The world of rare book collecting can seem intimidating, but with the right tools, you can become an expert in identifying and valuing your literary treasures. One of the most essential resources for any aspiring book collector is "Collected Books: The Guide to Values" by Allen and Patricia Ahearn.

This comprehensive guide is a staple in the rare book community, offering a wealth of information to help you navigate the complexities of first edition identification and valuation. Here's a breakdown of how to use this invaluable resource:

1. Understand the Terminology: Before you dive in, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the language of book collecting. The Ahearns' guide includes a detailed glossary that explains key terms like "first printing," "first trade edition," "points of issue," and "dust jacket." Understanding these terms is the first step to accurately identifying your book.

2. The "First Edition" is More Than a Single Printing: The Ahearns' guide emphasizes that a "first edition" can encompass multiple printings. For a book to be a true first edition, it must be the first printing of the first edition. The Ahearns' guide helps you distinguish between these printings by providing specific "points of issue"—unique typographical errors, publisher's marks, or other details that identify the true first printing.

3. Look for Publisher's Points: Many publishers have specific practices for identifying first printings. The Ahearns' guide provides a detailed list of these "publisher's points" for various publishers. For example, some publishers used a number line on the copyright page, with a "1" indicating the first printing. Others used a specific code or a symbol. The Ahearns' guide decodes these publisher's secrets, making it easier for you to pinpoint a first printing.

4. Condition is King: The Ahearns' guide doesn't just help you identify a first edition; it also helps you understand how condition impacts value. The guide provides a comprehensive grading system, ranging from "Fine" to "Poor," and explains how a book's condition, particularly the presence and condition of its dust jacket, can significantly affect its market price. A first edition without a dust jacket can be worth a fraction of the value of the same book with a pristine dust jacket.

5. Cross-Reference with Market Values: The heart of the Ahearns' guide is its extensive list of books and their estimated values. The authors meticulously track auction results and dealer prices to provide a realistic range of values for various first editions. While these are just estimates, they give you a strong starting point for understanding the potential worth of your book.

Using "Collected Books: The Guide to Values" is like having a seasoned book expert by your side. It's a tool that empowers you to move beyond guessing and into the world of informed collecting. By understanding the terminology, looking for publisher's points, and appreciating the importance of condition, you'll be well on your way to unlocking the hidden value of your literary collection.

So, next time you're at a garage sale or Browse an old bookstore, keep the Ahearns' guide in mind. It might just lead you to your next great find!

Carolina Dean 
Rare Book Dealer