The complete works of john Bunyan illustrated edition with written note inside signed by Bunyan and church members
Book is very used and broken in, but there is a strange note and writing inside the cover that appears to be signed by Bunyan and some church members? Any information would be much appreciated.
Approximately 8 by 11 inches
Inherited
Yes
Hi Clifford,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
I've found a few copies of this volume available for purchase online, in the ballpark of $300, which would be a retail value; fair-market values such as those Mearto provides, are less, in the range of $100-150. In my research, I've discovered another copy (https://www.abebooks.com/first-edition/Complete-Works-John-Bunyan-Bradley-Garretson/31296858358/bd) that includes a facsimile of Bunyan's will, which appears to be the document that you have, though yours may be incomplete.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
John Bunyan
"The Complete Works of John Bunyan With an Introduction By Rev John P. Gulliver, DD, LLD"
Published by Bradley, Garretson & Co, Philadelphia, 1874
First edition, third printing
Calf hardcover, copy of the earliest American 19th century editions. Gilt spine title, "Illustrated" and middle medallion. Should have marbled front and back covers; with steel engraved plates throughout. Together with a partial letter.
11 by 8 inches
CONDITION: with some wear and losses commensurate with age
PROVENANCE: inherited
$100-150*
*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, and thank you again for using Mearto.
That's helpful, Clifford, thanks.
Because we are appraising items from photos, we take them at face value and assume they are "authentic" unless there is evidence that suggests otherwise. Because a copy of Bunyan's will was occasionally included in various editions, I am inclined to believe that the letter you have is that document, though possibly incomplete (see the link to a bookseller with an identical copy with complete will).
To actually authenticate items is beyond the scope of an appraisal but something Mearto offers as an additional service and would involve working with someone in our network of appraisers to have this examined in person; that's an additional cost. If you're interested in knowing more about this service, let me know.
Otherwise, you're all set for this.
Hi Delia,
Thank you for your time and expertise. I uploaded new images. I am most interested in whether the written letter and signatures on the page photographed are legitimate as well.
Hope to hear from you soon.