Hi Sheila,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

This book is a German Protestant hymnbook from the late 19th century. According to the text on the front page, it reads: "The title reads: “Evangelisches Gesangbuch” which translates to “Evangelical (Protestant) Hymnbook.” The full text reads "Prepared according to the decision of the provincial synod of 1884. For introduction in the Province of Brandenburg
Approved by the Evangelical Supreme Church Council Published by the Royal Consistory.

It was published in Berlin in 1886, by Trowitzsch und Sohn (a well-known Berlin religious publisher)

The Province of Brandenburg at the time was part of the Kingdom of Prussia, so this book belonged to the state-supported Protestant church system that developed after the reforms of Frederick William III of Prussia and the creation of the Prussian Union of Churches.

As an official regional hymnal used in Protestant churches in Brandenburg. It should include Lutheran and Reformed hymns, liturgical responses, psalms and occasionally prayers and scripture readings. As it was authorized by church authorities, it was meant for uniform worship across churches in the region.

Because of this, it's not very rare, though it has some appeal to collectors interested in German religious history items. At auction, other copies in similar condition have brought prices ranging from $20-40.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An 1886 German Evangelical Hymnal (Gesangbuch)
Published in Berlin by Trowitzsch and Son
Flyleaf with script presentation inscription dated April 22, 1924, binding in gilt embossed brown calf. Cover monogrammed "KB"
4 x 3 inches
CONDITION: This appears to be in good age-appropriate condition
PROVENANCE: acquired at a garage/yard sale
$ 20-40*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia