Posted by Adam Quinan on December 07, 2017 at 03:16:56 user Adam.
In Reply to: Re: Sale of 1st editions posted by Peter Hyland on December 06, 2017 at 09:14:08:
As someone who values books more for their content than their presentation, I cannot really understand those who value a first edition so much more highly than a new edition, or a good second hand copy of the 13th impression.
In my opinion, books are made to be read and even an ebook which is read is more valuable than a first edition kept locked up in a climate controlled bookshelf and never cracked open.
A painting or other work of art can be admired and is usually unique, so I can understand why someone would be prepared to pay more than the artist ever received for it, and I would include an illuminated handwritten book as a work of art. Similarly a very rare and very early printed book could be said to have historical value over and above its intrinsic worth as a book. However a 20th century author's first edition is virtually identical to all following editions and impressions and is basically an industrial product.
Post a followup (Only if you agree to the Terms and Conditions)