Charles Dickens is considered to be one of the greatest English writers of all times and certainly the greatest English novelist of the Victorian period. He wrote many books and many of his first editions are among the rarest books in the world. His most well known novels are: A Christmas Carol; Great Expectations; Oliver Twist; David Copperfield; A Tale of Two Cities; Hard Times; The Pickwick Papers and Bleak House.
Charles John Huffam Dickens, was born on February 7th, 1812 in Landport Portsmouth, England and died on June 9th 1870. Married to Catherine Thompson in April of 1836, had ten children and then separated in 1858. He travelled twice from England to the USA, in 1842 and 1867, and this exposure to the US society had affected his way of thinking and influenced his work. He published his first novel A Dinner at Popular Walk, in 1833 in the London periodical, Monthly Magazine and enjoyed fame and popularity during his lifetime which was deeply rooted in London’s picturesque gothic romance. His poetic, excessively ornate writing style seemed to spawn from spending time idealizing the characters he brought to life. It was not until the 20th century however, that his work was acknowledged and appreciated by critics and readers alike, as his popularity and fame climaxed.
He published most of his work serially in monthly publications; a form that enabled broader availability and managed to reach all classes of people. Great Expectations (1860-61) and Master Humphrey’s Clock (1840-41) were the only two novels not published in monthly parts. They were originally published in weekly parts. Every four or five weeks the leaves of text were gathered and made up into a single part each bound creating the monthly issue and ultimately used to complete the whole that was bound in three volumes. This weekly format is the scarcest in commerce. Imagine, this would entail securing more than 20 fragile periodicals bound together to complete a set and then having survived, so far, the factor of time for at least 150 years!
Luckily for Great Expectations, in July 1861, the month before the final weekly issues were released, 1000 copies of the complete series were published by London Chapman and Hall. This is presently identified as the first edition, first impression release that commands six figures in US dollars. An edition of 1000 copies on top of the surviving periodical collections is considered limited but still sizably significant. Unfortunately for Dicken’s rare book collectors, the majority of these copies were purchased by libraries in England and suffered the normal handling and library marking loss. Antiquarian book dealers seeking the big payoff that the complete set had to offer scrambled to marry volumes from distinct impressions and even editions. This practice has an adverse effect on pricing. Proper assessment and authenticity of the set is crucial for a smart, no regrets sizable investment.
An authors’ signature, is another attribute that can significantly contribute to the uniqueness and ultimate value of the rare book. Even though I have not come across any signed copies of Great Expectations offered for sale, Dicken’s signature is quite the prize. It is listed among the top 10 most valuable author signatures, and its existence on any of Dickens’s works has the potential to boost its value considerably.
Our price tracking of Dicken’s works through the Rare Book Sale Monitor, has shown for the most part a relatively constant level performance during the last few years. As 2012 brought the celebration of the 200th birthday of Charles Dickens, it should be interesting to see whether it will also be the year to bring a higher demand for his rare books. As numerous activities to commemorate this very special anniversary are carried out worldwide, collector awareness and inspiration of the importance of his work should be expected to rise.
{ 155 comments… read them below or add one }
I was recently given a series of books of Charles Dickens vol 1 thur 12
Vol 1 David Cooperfield first published in 1850 and revised by Mr Dickens in
1867 and 1867. Vol II Martin Chuzzlewit. VOLIII A Christmas Carol. Vol IIII
Great Expectations, V Oliver Twist , VI A Tale of Two Cities, VII Pickwick Papers,
VIII Edwin Drood,Old Curitosity Shop, VIIII, Nichols Nickleby, XLittle Dorrit, XI
Sketches by Boz. Please let me know what they are worth just curious thank you
Left you my email.
I have a charkes dickens great expectation edition 1914 signed by his daughter how much is it worth
I have a copy of Charles Dickenson Works Posthumous Papers. My Great Great (Great) Aunt wrote January 18th, 1888 inside the cover. The book looks a bit tired. Do you it may still have value?
I have a Charles Dickens Tale of Two Cities carton edition hard cover can not seem to find anything on the book on the top left corner it has a picture of a man with 1471?under it and the letters w on the top left corner and G on the right it was published by New York Caxton publishing co. Sketches by boz I’ve looked for the cover can it seem to find it and it has no published date I hope someone can help thank you
I have a book from the library at Gadshill Place with Charles Dickens Bookplate and Tag. Does anyone have an idea of it’s worth?
It rather depends on what the book is.
Let me know.
I have a complete set of 16 Charles Dixons books illustrated by Phiz ( Oldhams Press Ltd but the Child’s History of England and Christmas Stories has Barnaby Rudge inside! All the rest of the books are correct.
Can anyone shed any light on this mystery?
May some one helps me to find the value of charles dickens works David copperfield signed by dickens himself in the year of his death 1870
The year also by dickens hand written?
I have a set of four books of the great expectations they are hard cover brown appear to be published by T.B. Peterson and brothers in 1861.
There us a signature in the front but honestly I’m still trying to read it correctly. But the date is 1861.
Can anyone help?
I have a Charles Dickens book that I cannot find anything about.
Its tittle is
Dickens’ Christmas Stories
The world publishing company..
Anyone know about this book ?
Hi. I have a complete, 40 edition numbered set (117 of 1000) of The Works of Charles Dickens, 1899, Temple Edition that were passed down. They are a beautiful green leather and I’m wondering if these will simply look nice on my bookshelf or if they’re worth anything. Thanks in advance.
I have a Cricket on the Hearth by Charles Dickens miniature book, but it does not have a year in it. It does show that it’s from New York The Mershon Company Publishers. I could not find a similar hardcover online. It’s a dark burgundy with tiny blue flowers. Where can I find out how much this book is worth?
Hello anyone. I was just given a book, Charles Dickens , Great Expectations. I know nothing about it, value, rarity, etc. It does not have a copyright date. It does say The home library on the binding and the publisher isA.L.Burt, New York. Also is printed the Mershon Company Press. It also says in “affectionately inscribe to Chauncey Hare Townshend.
There is one other thing that might be of importance. At the very back of the book inside is a small label that says Belkham & Warfield Book Sellers, Hartford, Connecticut. My understanding is that this book store changed names and owners in 1929. I am wonderIng if this could help date the book as this book store is of historical prominence. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
I have a mystery I’m not sure how to solve. There’s no publishing or copyright date in my antique set of Collier’s Unabridged Edition, The works of Charles dickens, with illustrations. P.F.Collier, publisher. Red hard cover.
Does anyone know where to go to look this up? Thanks!
I have “The Old Curiosity Shop” published by London & Glasgow illustrated in excellent condition. It has it’s own hard container (akin to a vcr holder except hard). The book itself has a clear plastic looking slipcover about it. Unable to find a published date approx 6″ by 4″.”curious” about the value. The cover says “British Made”
Hello! I found a first edition 1934 hardcover Charles Dickens called The Year of Our Lord at an estate sale for $1.50. I was shocked it still has a decent book jacket on it. Wondering if anyone could give a ballpark on value?? Thanks!!
I have a green hard cover nicholas nickleby . The world’s best library
Printed by hazel Watson and viney
Not sure of year
It has editorial notes at the front
I just found a French version of Great Expectations. Les Grandes Esperances. Paris Librairie Hachette ET 1873. I cant find anything on this version. Does anyone here have any knowledge?
I have the CHARLES DICKENS 1868 – COMPLETE 20 VOLUME SET – CLEARTYPE EDITION by BOOKS INC. All covers and pages are in excellent condition. Do you have any idea of the value of this set or should I simply donate it to Goodwill?
Hi Kathleen! I am looking to purchase a Charles Dickens’ set. If you are willing to sell, please contact me itsthemitsnotme AT hotmail DOT com
I have a clear type edition charles dickens books 18 books total all signed 8703301854 call anytime
I have the CHARLES DICKENS 1868 – COMPLETE 20 VOLUME SET – CLEARTYPE EDITION by BOOKS INC. All covers and pages are in excellent condition. Do you have any idea of the value of this set or should I simply donate it to Goodwill?
I have an old book of oliver twist charles dickens edition. Red leather cover. On front of leather cover charles dickens signature in gold and EDITION underneath. 1st page has his signature in what looks like pen and EDITION printed underneath. Its called the adventures of oliver twist with 8 illustrations it was giben to a george d mackay on 1st nov 1870 book by chapman and hall printed by virtue and co. Last line of preface mentions jacobs island continues to exist in 1867, though improved and much changed.
I have a arundel edition of the PICWICK papers with no date and title misspelled on spine. Any thoughts?
I have a book that says it is 1 of 1000 impressions Works of Charles Dickens. Pickwick. Papers. Volume 1. It is in poor condition. All there with cover. Just some papers are coming loose.
I recently purchased a set of 15 Charles Dickens books. ( Dickens’ Works ) When I bought them , I was told they were published in the year 1900. Upon arrival, I can not find a publishing year. They are published by “Chicago And New York: Belford, Clarke, & Company”. Illustrated by F. Barnard.
I have tried to do my own research on the books to find out a publishing date, but have been unsuccessful. Any help would be greatly appreicated !
I have a copy of The Pickwick Papers by Charles Darwin published by Nelson Classics -Thomas Nelson and Sons LTD, Parkside Works Edinburgh 9. I am unable to locate the date this was published, does anyone have a rough idea?
Hello I have an old set of Charles Dickens books about 24. Maroon color with Gold writing on side. Printed by P. F. Collier and Son. There is no date on any of the books. But in one of the books “Child’s History of England” there is a sketch of Dickens with a signature just wondering if it authentic. What would be the worth.
I have a small pocket size copy of the chimes by dickens and published by chapman and hall ltd. 1906 london. any value ? the cover is damaged but the rest is in good condition. thank you
I have a copy of DICKENS, COMPLETES wORKS nicholas NICKLEBY vol 11 hard back
I have one in exelent condition it’s no 664 and price is 7s 6p what type of value are they
Hello, I would like to know the value of some books I recently inherited, and where I might sell them. It is a six volume collection of Charles Dickens’s Works illustrated published by James R.Osgood & Co. – Late Ticknor & Fields, and Fields, Osgood, & Co. 1871. The books have “the Snarleosribrene edition” (written in cursive so may be misspelled) written on the front cover.
Inside it says:
“Gad’s Hill Place, Higham by Rochester, Kent,
Second April, 1867
By a special arrangement with me and my English Publishers, (partners with me in the copyright of my works,) Messrs. Ticknor and Fields, of Boston, have become the only authorized representatives in America of the whole series of my books. CHARLES DICKENS.”
Each volume has a few books in it. One includes “Little Dorrit”, “Oliver Twist”, “Pictures From Italy”, and “American Notes” all in one. Another volume includes “Bleakhouse”, “Tale of two cities”,and “Great expectations”. The third includes “Dombey and son”, and “David Copperfield”. The fourth contains “Pickwick Papers”, and “Martin Chuzzlewit”. The Fifth, “Old Curiosity shop”, “Reprinted Pieces”, “Barnaby Rudge”, and “Hard Times”. And last, the sixth is 1.”Christmas Books” which includes: “A Christmas Carol”, “The Cricket on the Hearth”, “The Battle of Life”, and “The Haunted Man” , 2.”Sketches by Boz” which includes: “Seven Sketches From Our Parish”, “Scenes”, “Characters”, and “Tales”, 3.”Uncommercial Traveller”, and 4.”Additional Christmas Stories” which includes: “Somebody’s Luggage.”, “Mrs. Lirriper’s Lodgings.”, “Mrs. Lirriper’s Legacy.”, “Doctor Marigold.”, “Two Ghost Stories”, “The Boy at Mugby”, “The Seven Poor Travellers.”, “The Holly-Tree.”, and “Going Into Society.”.
I left my Email address and would love to hear your expertise about my books.
Thank you for your time. Jennifer
Hello, someone just gave me a copy of Great Expectations. It’s a small 6” book, Red hard cover. The publisher is Thomas Nelson and sons Ltd. I can’t find a publishing date, Other than a list of books by dickens with the dates of first publications in parenthesis after each book. 1861 is the date give for Great Expectations. Could you tell me if this book is worth anything? Thank you.
Hi, I recently bought 10 antique books from a thrift store. One of them was David Copperfield. It is one of The Companion Books. Any idea how much it is worth? It has the leather jacket and is in pretty good condition.
I have a red cloth hardcover great expectations published by Thomas Nelson and sons do you have any idea the age and value? Thank you
Jessica, did u find out any info. On your book? I was reading through the messages and my book sound like the one you have. I’m hoping I get my question answered by admin. Thanks, jeanie
http://sapphire.ac.uk/assets/images/Thomas-nelson-and-sons/7.Printing%20and%20Publishing%20Activities.pdf
just learned this in 1900 they went to the “Nelson Size” books of 6.5″ x 4.25″ books. thats the size of mine
I have the same book and can’t find anything matching front cover detailing online. There is a red covered book published in 1900 but is different than the one I have. Ive been trying to research this but no luck so far. My publisher is “T. Nelson & Sons”. Is yours the same or is “Thomas” spelled out? I was able to find out that Thomas Nelson and Sons was names in 1858. A David Copperfield book from 1850s was a tan color.
Have you found anything out?
Also have a 1953 copyright of Magic Fishbone by Charles Dickens – hardback. Library markings and aged cover – is it worth anything
Purchased book 1998 in London, Robinson crusoe De foe, call & ingalls? written inside, henry Dixon stated given to him something prinhand??? Looks like Xmas 1873 , thoughts thank you , good condition
I have 53 volumes of Charles Dickens work, blue covers with gold writing, consisting of 18 titles published between 1860 and 1866 in New York and Cambridge variously by Sheldon, Hurd and Houghton, and James G. Gregory. I have read online that the series should consist of 55 volumes. Five of the titles in my collection seem to be incomplete in that instead of “The End,” they state the end of the volume. So I think that perhaps two of these titles might have one more volume. I have American Notes I and II; Bleak House I, II. III. IV; David Copperfield I II III IV; Oliver Twist I and II, and Pickwick Papers I, II, III, and IV. Alternatively, perhaps there is a 2-volume title I am missing. Is there any place I can find a listing of all the volumes published in the Works of Charles Dickinson Household Edition?
Hi, I recently found 4 hard cover Dickens novels. They are published by S.A. Maxwell & Co. Chicago. There is no publication date inside, and I’ve just spent the past 3 hours scouring the internet, but to no avail. They are approximately 5″ wide by 7.5″ tall, and there is what appearsto be a smoking genie’s lamp in the upper right hand corner of the cover. Any light you could shed would be exceedingly appreciated!
Hi – I have an 1870 print of Barnaby Rudge (a tale of the riots of’eighty) published by Chapman and Hall.
There are 8 illustrations. It is bound in red book cloth and has the gold facsimile of Dickens’ signature on the front cover.
I repair books as a hobby, but want to check it’s value in case it’s worth more in it’s current condition. It is intact apart from some minor damage to the top & bottom of the bookcloth on the spine.
Any thoughts?
I have a hardcover copy of: Oliver Twist, pub 1888, Caxton ed, by Belford, Clarke & Co. Has all pages intact. anyone know if this has any value?
Hi I recently bought a hardback 10th edition Great Expecations book at a car boot. Any idea how much it’s worht if anything?
I have a Christmas Carol dated 1843
Hello, I was wondering if you could tell me about a set of dickens books that I have. published by A.L. Burt New York. from 1909 to around 1912 I believe. blue binding, small scroll work on the top and bottom of the spine. I have 14 right now I was just wondering if there were more to this set. I think I am missing david copperfield. Just trying to find any information about this set that I can as I know nothing about it. Can send a picture if you have an address for me to send it to. thank you for your time
Ryan
Hi.I have a blue hardcover copy with Charles dickens embossed signature on the front cover. On the spine it says oliver twist great expectations dickens in gold. in the middle it has the editors note that says. This edition is printed from the one carefully corrected by the author in1877 1868
Hello , i had a hospitat appointment in London on Tuesday and the taxi driver pointed out Charles Dickens home close by .
When i got home i pulled out a very old looking copy of Oliver Twist. I bought it about 40rs ago .The cover is a red cotton with a gold print of Charles Dickens on the front .At the bottom of front cover there is an impressed ,underlined name but i can’t quite make it out .
Inside it says London ROBERT HAYES,LTD, ROSEBERY HOUSE ,BREAMS BUILDINGS ,EC.4
Bottom of last page says – Printed in Great Britain at the Athenaeum Printing Works ,Redhill .
I have a hardbound solid red cover of “Bleak House” by Charles Dickens. Mershon Company Publishers. No publisher date. 857 pages. No illustrations. Excellent condition, with the exception of one torn page.
I have a 15 Volume set of Dickens, it does not have a date but and it say University Press Company, Sterling Edition is on the spline. Any idea what year or value?
Have a May 1923 edition of the adventures of Oliver Twist – good condition – temple press at lechworth in Great Britain – last page has a fine drawing labeled popular edition – thoughts?
Have a single volume with Little Dorrit and Oliver Twist, illustrations by F. Barnard, Puck Edition, Exchange Printing Co. Any idea of it’s publication date or value?
I have the Gadshill edition Charles dickens by Andrew Lang. Worth anything?
Hi. I recently inherited a 22-book edition of and bout Charles Dickens, in fair condition (no book worm holes, some age related fragility in the bindings of the ones most loved, yellowed and fragile pages), uniform navy blue cloth covers with gold lettering (faded), and a printer’s imprint on the front cover of a CH for Chapman and Hall. The set includes Great Expectations, A Tale of Two Cities, Oliver Twist, Pickwick Papers, Martin Chuzzlewit, Our Mutual Friend, Sketches by Boz, Barnaby Rudge, Edwin Drood, Christmas Stories, Christmas Books, The Uncommon Traveller, David Copperfield, American Notes and Reprinted Pieces, Bleak House, A Child’s History of England, The Old Curiosity Shop, Nicholas Nickleby, Hard Times and Pictures From Italy, Little Dorrit, Dombey and Son, and the Life of Charles Dickens (by his executor John Forster), Most are illustrated throughout, and the onion skin between the illustrations and pages are intact. The covers are faded with normal age, but few have any damage. Inside, they are marked as being printso f the original works as editied by the author and there is mention of printing by William Clowes and Sons, Limited.
I have thus far in my research not found anything definitive about this set. Any notions of its value?
My friend found The Great Expectations published in 1875 by James R Osgood. Can you tell me what edition this is and what it could be worth?
I have a hardback book of little dorrit “household edition” from Bedford and Clarke co. Someone wrote there name with a date written of 1888. I can’t find any information on this book. It has both stories of poverty and riches.
I have an actors edition, cambridge text, of Julius Caesar, Hamlet and Macbeth.
Copyright 1899, George Barrie and Sons. The book is in good condition though the front and back covers are detached from the book. The outer layer of the spine is gone but is itherwise complete.
I also have Charles Dickens, hardcover George Sproul Publisher no copyright date. The cover is intact except for the outer layer of the spine
I found an old hard cover copy of Great Expectations by Dickens with no date. It just has Book League of America – New York. On reverse of same page it has Printed in the United States of America. Can you tell me anything about it? Thanks
steven! i am at goodwill right now and just found the exact book you’re describing!! no date! it’s blowing my mind.. any info???
Greetings,
I am having trouble locating an estimate on Oliver Twist Volumes 1 & 2 published by J.H. Sears & Co.
These books are the Royal Red Library Editions with gilt edges (perfect) and original red satin bookmarks. Red boards with gilt initial crests on front. Binding is sound, pages are clean and free of markings, creases or tears.
Thank you
While cleaning and packing my house I came across a set on Dickens books published by The Mershon Company New York Rahway N.J. None of them have a copy write date. Hardback Green,any information would be of great help in dating these books. Thank You.
I just today bought a 15 hardcover book collection of Charles Dickens works and I was wondering if you would be able to tell me how much they’re worth.
The collection include Sketches By Boz — Hard Times, Barnaby Ridge — The Uncommercial Traveller, Bleak House, Christmas Stories — Pictures From Italy, Martin Chuzzlewit, Little Dorrit, Oliver Twist — Great Expectations, A Tale of Two Cities — A Christmas Carol, American Notes – Master Humphrey’s — Life of Dickens, Our Mutual Friend, David Copperfield, Dombey and Son, Miscellaneous Papers — Edwin Drood and The Old Curiosity Shop — A Child’s History of England.
The publisher is Hazell, Waston and Vineyard, Ltd and the illustrator is Phiz. All the books are in good condition and all the pages are intact.
Thank you!
What is a limited ( 1000( edition 50 volumes in good condition worth?
I have 9 beautiful hardback blue with gold lettering. Little Dorritt/Oliver Twist.Dombey and Son/Uncommercial Traveler.Barnaf Rudge/Tale of two cities/Hard Times.Mutual Friend/ Great Expectations. pick wick Papers/Sketches by Boz.Martin Chuzzlewit/American Notes.Bleakhouse/History of England.Edwin Drood/Christmas Stories.Nicholas Nickleby/Old Curiosity Shop. With illustrations by F. Barnard. Puck Edition. There is no date. It says press of exchange printing co. 33 water street, New York. They are in excellent condition. I have no idea what they might be worth. My uncle left them with many other old books. Can you help me out.
Thank you,
Linda K.
Hi their, just a quick question, bought a book from a small book shop, up north-Charles Dickens Great expectations-published 1906, good condition, no pages ripped or missing-London-Chapman and Hall ltd 1906
Can you tell me more-rarity, value did i purchase to much or little? any information
thanks
hi. My dad is a coin and jewelry shop owner and occasionally gets collectibles coming in. He currently has 4 green hardback cloth dickens books printed by the mershon company (no date). the titles of the book are: Christmas stories and reprinted pieces, dombey and son, the curiosity shop and hard times, the personal history.any help would be greatly appreciated
Hello, I have a Dickens hard back publish year 1881. It is a Globe Edition published by Houghton, Mifflin&Company. The title of the book is “The Old curiosity Shop”. Volume 1-2 and 3. No pages missing, slightly worn(1881)but in over all pretty good condition. Is it worth anything? Or should I just read it and put it back in the drawer? Thanks.
I have a copy of Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens with an introduction by G.K. Chesterton 1907 printed 1909 London and New York. IT is the Everyman’s Library edition. . I am wondering its value. The cover is not in the best condition. But interior is in mint condition.
I have a hardback copy of the pickwick papers (vol 1 and 11) that was given as a prize in 1905. Do these old books have Dickens’ signature printed in them? There isn’t a date of publication on it and it was published by James Askew & son Corporation st
Thanks
Hi I have a copy of great expectations chapman and hall hard cover it has the something written on the front cover but I can’t make it out as it’s in heavy cursive. Any idea of the age and or price?? Please?
Hi ya , I’ve just purchased 16 blue bound complete works of Charles Dickens illustrated books 1910 in a fitted oak bookcase for just £ 25.00 , the books are in amazing condition but the bookcase has a chip of wood missing at the top how much do you think it’s worth .
Thank you.
I found a fist edition The Works of Charles Dickens Volume 1 1880. Do you know an approximate value?
Hi I have a slim volume of Great Expectations published by Chapman and Hall. It is bound in green with Charles Dickens signature embossed in gold on the front cover.
No date inside. There is a drawing in the first pages entitled ‘lecturing in capital’.
The final page says ‘ printed by William Clowes and sons limited, London and Beccles. ‘
Can anyone advise on its rarity or value if any?
Thanks.
Your explanation and the letters of others and your responses are most informative. What might these books be worth?
The Works of Charles Dickens, The Pocket Volume Edition
Chapman and Hall, London, 1880
Burgundy with tan corners, gold embossed
R. Clay, Sons. And Taylor, Bread Street Hill
In the Preface, the author remarks on the original Preface.
Thank you.
Nick King I Have this Book That is Starting To Fall Apart, Called GREAT EXPECTATIONS The Outside Cover Says — THE CHARLES DICKENS EDITION —- Inside Someone Had Signed The Book, Under The Name It Says — LONDON – CHAPMAN & HALL, 193, PICCADILLY, 1868 I Would Like To Know If This Book Has Any Value. Thank You
My grandmother left me 7 volumes of the Porter & Coates edition, which has the misplaced apostrophe (Dicken’s Works). Any idea of value? They are in pretty good shape. No pub date. When were they published?
Dombey and Son
Our Mutual Friend
Little Dorreit
Martin Chuzzlewit
Mystery of Edwin Drood
Oliver Twist
Old Curiosity Shop
Thanks! Elisabeth Tetlow
I bought a Greats Expectations and Hard Times book by Charles Dickens. The date on the inside says 1904 and was wondering how much it would be worth?
I have a copy of Great Expectations that does not have the page that usually shows the print year inside. It’s not that he page is missing, just that it isn’t there at all. The only info in the book is that is says “printed in the USA”. It is a black hardback with gold print on the binding. How can I find out what year the boom might be from and possibly it’s worth? Thanks for your help!
Hi All, I have a red book that has the title Great Expectations by Charles Dickens..in between the pages where the drawings are there is a fine piece of paper in between pages. I found this book in amongst some old books at a garage sale and always had the feeling to keep it.
Can you give me any information on this please
I have 16 volumes of American Classic books, short stories, poems by different authors. I believe the books are reprints and possibly were purchased through a book club. The Title and Author page also include “The Book League of America” New York. There are no dates included on any page. The books are black with silver title and author on the spine. An example of one book is Adventures of Oliver Twist, Dickens.
Is there any value to these books.
Thank you
I bought a set of dickens volume 30. Missing four books, they don’t have publishing dates…..why is this. These are burgandy hardbacks with the bust of who I assume to be dickens embedded on the front of the books. I know that he published in the weekly pickwick before actually publishing a book. Please help me value these books.
Hi,
I have a hardcover of Our Mutual Friend Volume II published in 1911 and hardcove of Great Expectations published by the Book League of America, two different hardcoverw of Robinson Crusoe, one published by The Heritage Press and the other published by Grosset & Dunlap, and finally a hardcover of Anna Karenina split in two volumes published in 1939 by Random House. I was wondering if you could offer any insight into the value of each of these.
All in good condition.
Thank you for your time!
Avery
Good evening,
I have the Caxton Popular Illustrated Edition complete works of Charles Dickens. There are no dates anywhere in the books. I am guessing they are late 1800’s? There are 15 books in the set. I was wondering if you might know something about this edition? It has a printed flyer inside that says the set was originally $37.50 or $22.50 in a ‘ neat paper box’ : )
Good morning,
I have the following books that I am researching their value:
The Works of Charles Dickens Illustrated by Darley & Gilbert Great Expectations I & II. It is a green hard cover book with gold writing, BOZ is in a circle on the front cover along with C.D. It is a household Edition and published in NY by James G. Gregory 46 Walker Street 1861 (both books in excellent condition)
the second series is Mutual Friend I-IV also in th green hard cover with the gold and published NY Hurd & Houghton 1866
All books have what looks like a piece of tissue paper covering a scene in the book with the page number that it is located with.
Any help would be appreciated.
Thank you,
Denise
I have a 15 volume set of Charles Dickens published by The Mershon Company
Rahway NJ New York
Any idea the value?
Or an antique book dealer in Texas I can take them to for appraisal?
a tale of riots eighty by charles dickens not barnaby rudge sry.
i have a book from 1896 by charles dickens called barnaby rudge is there any value. ty
I have a copy of Great Expectations in poor condition but complete. The publisher is Collins clear-type press London and glasgow no serial number or a date. The firest page just has the title and the back says manufactured in Great Britain. Artwork by Harry Furries.
Any idea of value?
Thank you
Alan
Could you advise as to a value on a couple of books?
1) Dicken’s Works. Illustrated. Two Cities & Great Expectations with original illustrations by S. Eytinge, Jr. Boston: Ticknor and Fields 1867
2) The Oregon Trail. The Works of Francis Parkman. Bolume XII 1892
3)Ann & Jane Taylor’s Poetry for Children. Illustrated. I am not seeing a date. States, published separately, in foolscape evo, clith guilt. One shilling each volume.
London: Ward, Lock & Tyler, Warwick House, Paternoster Row, E.C.
4) The Poetical Wirks of Alexander Pope with life. Engravings on steel. Gall & Inglis. Edinburgh: Bernard Terrace. London: 25 Paternoster Sq;;
Thank you
I have two books by Charles Dickens
Great Expectations-Centennial Edition
Distributed by Heron Books
Production of- Edito-Service S. A. Geneva
David Copperfield 11
Same information
I was just wandering their value …..if any???
I found a great expectations book at my great grandparents house it has no copyright date it’s a hardback and says THE MERSHON COMPANY RAHWAY, N.J. NEW YORK the book looks like it was never open mint condition any idea on year and value
Hi. I have 3 vols of great expectations 1861 .
Which vol 2 have 3rd edition printed on title page and other vols have nothing.. they are in the violet blue cloth . Pages are all in a very.good condition. Covers are faded. And.one cover haf been split from the book. Also label.of the librarian is on cover. . Can you tell me what they worth please?. Thanks.
Hi Simon
Most copies of early editions of Great Expectations went to circulating libraries. I guess yours says W.H. Smith or Mudie’s Library on the labels. It is a mixed set but still of serious value, though condition is everything with books like this. If you still have the set and are interested in selling I would be prepared to make you a realistic offer.
Hello I have some too would you be able to help shed some information on them for me please?
Mine are all 1861 first impression . Jeremy
Hi Luke
The first impression was of 1,000 sets, although all five impressions were actually made at the same time – the later impression slugs were added to look like the publishers were doing a roaring trade. If the books are in the original purple cloth and in decent shape then they are worth serious money. Quite how much could only be determined by inspection.
Yes they have the original purple cloth . Have had some restoration on them but therein reasonable condition . Please text me to discuss further 07873827848
Hello I have some too would you be able to help shed some information on them for me please? All 1861 first impression
Hi Luke!
I haven’t looked at this site for months, but if you still have that set of GE from 1861 I could provide a valuation.
Kara your book is extremely valuable. Not only is it rare to have a book without the copyright date printed, given the date that you had implied above, it is very valuable and could be sold from $400-$1500 given the condition it is held in, such as no ripped pages and the spine in fine to brand new condition.
I own a hardback copy of Great Expectations by Dickens. It’s in good condition without a copyright date and the front page has THE MERSHON COMPANY at the bottom and underneath that it has Rahway, NJ New York. on the inside cover someone wrote “Hazel H. Williams Aug 19,1905. Do you know the value of this book?
I have a 54 book set of Dickens. All 1860’s. Hurd and Houghton Publisher. Riverside Press.
Any idea of value? Thanks, Bob
Hi!
I have a Charles Dickens collection of 18 red hard cover books. On the front the title (in black) is in the left hand top corner with ‘Dickens’ underneath the title. There is no proper publication information in the books, no date nothing, just at the end of every book at the bottom it states William Clowes and Sons limited, London and Beccles. And in the beginning it states London: Chapman & Hall, Ld. When could this possibly have been published and what could the worth of it possibly be ?
i have a famous fiction libray volume 1 great expectations book with 180 pages n.y.b.c. 1909. by charles dickens . There is no copywrite date no publisher name no editor name,and i can not find it anywhere. but i see a volume 2 same book but has 360 pages.i need to know
Hi I have a set of 20 Charles Dickens books published by Chapman & Hall Ltd and printed by William Clows and Sons Ltd London and Beccles. There is no publication date. There is one picture at the front of each book. Along with the collection there is also another book called The Childhood and Youth of Dickens by Robert Langton from 1912. All books are in good condition.
I wondered if you could indicate how much these might be worth.
It may be the Biographical edition that was printed 1903-1908 by William Clowes and Sons, London and Beccles.
It is quite scarce.
I have four Charles Dickens books and would like to know what they are worth:
1. Great Expectations – Cartleton’s illustrated edition – 1874
2. Barnaby Rudge – Carleton’s illustrated edition – 1873
3. Uncommercial and Short Stories 0 Carleton’s illustrated edition – 1874
4. Dombey and Son – Carleton’s illustrated edition – 1874
The complete 20 volume set of Carleton’s new illustrated edition is valued at less than $500.
I have a 1936 copy of Charles Dicken’s. David Copper field published by the McMillan Company, is there any value? In fair condition.
Hi, A relative has The Complete works of Charles Dickens, Published 1906 Chapman Hall, with Red spine and Dark Green hard cover, 21 volumes of which I think there are 40 books (ie some volumes have more than one book in them). They are in a fairly good condition. We were just wondering as to what the value might be as my research has turned up anything from a few hundred pounds to a few thousand so I’m a little confused. Can you help with an idea? Thanks
I have a caxton edition hard cover personalized as a Christmas gift in 1888. of Tale of Two Cities. It is a beautiful book I don’t expect it to be worth much but what is it worth?
I have a excellent condition…1909 Volume II of Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. Published by New York Book Company. Could you tell me its value and how I can find Volume I ?
Thank you, any information would be appreciated.
Too scarce to locate, too many substitutes to inflate price.
Sorry you are in a lose-lose situation.
I have a set of 16 books I think a full set red covers and spine with gilt tooling in spine I get the feeling they could be as late as 1960 Hazell Watson and Viney London illustrations by Marcus stone nice condition any value am I right a out their age being modern? Thanks
I have a 54 book set of Dickens. All 1860’s. Hurd and Houghton Publisher. Riverside Press.
Any idea of value? Thanks, Bob
I am in possession of several collections of books from the lates 1800s. Charles Dickens, 168 of 500, Cruikshank edition, among them. I am a serious seller and would like to connect with someone who could help me sell them.
Hello
I wonder if you can help.
I have 13 volumes of Charles Dickens published by Porter and Coates Philadelphia.
They are calf bound with some red marbling on the front and back and red marbled inside covers. They include the volume The Posthumous Papers of the Pickwick Club.
Do you have any idea of their worth please?
Many thanks
Any advice or value on mine?
Mike Chowns
Nice set. $500-$1000
Hi, I have five Dickens books that were published in 1871 by James R Osgood and company Boston and was wondering how much they’d be worth? They are in pretty poor condition.
Cheers,
Lou
James R. Osgood publishers was formed in 1870 and dissolved in 1878. Before their successful publications of Bret Harte’s “The Luck of Roaring Camp and Other Stories” and his “poems and condensed novels,” they republished some of Dickens’s works. The poor condition of the volumes you are describing may deem worthless.
Hello
I have recently acquired 13 volumes of Charles Dickens books.
They are hard cover bound in green with gold letters.
On the spine it says The works of Charles dickens Household edition.
illustrated by Darley and Gilbert.
on the outside cover it has a gold circle with CD IN IT AND BOZ FADED BEHIND THAT.
INSIDE COVER reads
new york
james g gregory publisher
46 walker st
1861
I have Great expectations Volume 1 and 2
Curiosity shop 1, 2 and 3
Nicholas Nickelby 1, 2 , 3 and 4
Pickwick papers 1,2,3 and 4
all in fair to good condition.
I was told these were a first edition but cannot verify.
Any help would be appreciated.
Sincerely
Mike Chowns
Hello, I have a Copy of an authors edition of ” A Child’s History in England”. And I believe it was published by, PORTER & COATES, from Philadelphia. It is a hard cover but, I cannot find anything about this book? Can someone help me out. Thanks for your time..
I have a hard back book of Oliver Twist from 1839 is it worth anything
Hi! I have a partial set of the original illustrated Library Edition set of Charles Dickens. These are published by Chapman and Hall, London, with a note “printed by William Clowes and Sons Limited, Duke Street, Stanford Street, S.E., and Great Windmill St , W.” The one I pulled out is Great Expectations. It is illustrated by Marcus Stone, 560 pages, with a inked date of 1918. This is hardcover with a green cloth binding, gilded print and black designs. Do you have any idea of it’s worth? Thank you for your website, it is very informative.
Hi I have 14 books by Dickens including Life of Dickens by Frederic G Kitton published by Caxton Publishing. Could these be of any value. C Roe
I have been given a copy of Great Expectations, Caxton Edition.
Can’t find publishing date.
With illustrations by F.A. Fraser
Belford, Clarke & Co. Publishers
Brown in color with gold embossed title and author on spine.
Any idea what I have and its value ?
I have a leather bound hard cover of Charles Dicken’s Great Expectations 1867 Chapman and Hall print. I was wondering how rare it is and what its value would be today?
Your volume is worth a few hundred dollars at least.
I have a 1909 Charles Dickens Great Expectations book published by the New York Book Company. It is in fair to good condition and I am curious what it is worth. It is a volume 1.
The complete set could be worth around $50.
I have a copy of Christmas Stories by Dickens and Collins Publisher: Belford, Clarke & Company Green boards, “Claxton Edition- May blessings be upon the head of Cadmus, the Phoeinicians, or whoever it was that invented books” embossed on front cover along w/ other elaborate embossing, gilt block on spine saying “Christmas Stories, Dickens”, w/ no mention of Collins. Book has “No Thoroughfare” by Collins and “The Lazy Tour of Two Idle Apprentices”. No copywrite page, 1860 according to Harvard U. Library. Good condition for age. Only found 1 store in US w/a copy. What do you say it’s worth?
Could it be the 14th volume from Dickens Works published by Belford, Clarke & Co. in Chicago from 1875 to 1892; derived from the “Caxton edition” of Dickens’s works, first published by J.B. Alden in 1883?
I wonder what an 1867 11 book set is valued at. Good condition. Illustrated. They have been in the family for generations…I believe original owners.
It all depends on the 11 books you are referring to.
My mom has a set of five Charles Dickens books.they are burgundy books with gold print on the side. She has Bleak House, little dorrit ,our mutual friend, and dombey and son to name a few. We are trying to find the value.
I’ve located Great Expectations and Little Dorrit. Both books are green cloth with a gold embossing of Charles Dickens on the front of the book. Its dated 1860, which is spelled out in words. The books also have an explanation from the American publisher stating the books were published simultaneously in America and Europe (or whatever foreign country its in). The statement also lists how much Charles Dickens was paid – I think is was £1,000 in gold and silver.
Does this sound familiar?
Thanks
Ms. Pat Sterling
I have many volumes of the Charles dickens , but wonder if there is a list somewhere so I can figure which ones I’m missing. Household edition with marbling bound in red not the green or tan that I see everywhere. Different dates around 1870 and before.
Hello, we have Charles Dickens Great Expectations 1st edition by New York Book Company, 1909. Do you have any knowledge as to the value?
I have a hard cover of Great Expectations – Charles Dickens “The Book League of America” New York. How much is this worth. It is in good condition..
The Book League of America established in 1930, printed and published contemporary and classic books. Primarily a mail order book sales club was ultimately sold to Doubleday in 1935. Book Club Editions are not usually considered to be valuable.
Good day,
My mother-in-law has 15 Charles Dickens volumes – Nicholas Nickleby, Bleak House, The Pickwick Papers, Little Dorrit, The Tale of Two Cities, American Notes, Martin Chuzzlewit, Oliver Twist, Great Expectations, Sketches by Boz, Hard Times, Barnaby Rudge, Edwin Drood, A Christmas Carol, Reprinted pieces, The Old Curiosity Shop, Uncommercial Traveler, Child’s history of England, Christmas Stories, Dombey and Son, Our Mutual Friend, Life and Characters of Dickens….none of these books has a print date in them….all are in a very good condition. My Mom in Law thinks they are more than 60 years old as they have been in her family since she was a kid. The books were printed by Odhams Press LTD Long Acre London. I would like some info regarding these books and to what value they should insured for.
Thank you in advance
Marc
Hi. I am holding a Globe Edition of Oliver Twist — Great Expectations. Hurd & Houghton, 1867 is prominently displayed, and it seems in fairly good condition (a little wear at the top and bottom of spine, exterior edge of pages shows some discoloration which looks like dust). I bought it in an antique book store for a dollar, and was wondering what its approximate value might be. Thanks, L.
Dickens Globe Edition volumes are valued around $10. Oliver Twist however, is quite scarce and should be worth a bit more.
I have a copy of Great Expectations with a reprint date of 1936… publisher is either J. M. Dent & Sons London which is listed first or E. P. Dutton & Co. New York… it is a little red hard cover novel that was part of the Everyman’s Library set. The back page also says “Made at the Temple Press Letchworth, Great Britain.” The binding is faded, but overall the book is in good shape. How much would this be worth? And how do you tell which was the publisher? I am confused by the three places listed, generally it is the first publisher listed, corrrect?
J. M. Dent & Sons published Everyman’s Library starting in 1906 with a total of 152 titles. Some of these titles are impressive, collectible volumes such as the 1933 “The Pilgrim’s Regress: An Allegorical Apology for Christianity Reason and Romanticism” by C.S. Lewis. Due to the success of the Everyman’s Library, Dent built the Temple Press in order meet the increased demand. In 1906, E.P. Dutton made a deal with English J. M. Dent to be the American distributor of the Everyman’s Library series of these classic reprints. What you have is the American edition of the Dent reprint. The “original” 1936 reprint is still worth a few hundred dollars depending on condition.
I have a 13 volume set of Dickens’ Works from 1868, globe edition. (I believe the latter releases feature a 14th book once Edwin Drood came out) I know they released three other editions and that the Globe Edition was the most affordable at the time, however, I can find very little additional information. Any idea of value or a good resource on the books?
Thank you very much!
I found a box of charles dickens.Great expectations and others
that are bound loosly with no date and are not cut fully to be able to be read.
i believe that they were printed and pasted and were never read.Like the bottom is uneven and roughHard cover but really old with i believe leather red cover6x 8 inches.What fid i Find?
RICK
I have a Great Expectations book published by Rinehart Editions copyright 1948, by Earl Davis with a signature that may be the authors. Is there any way to find the value?
Paperback is quite common and inexpensive.
I also have The Golden Dawn by Rev J H Potts. The copyright is 1883. I am wondering what the worth of this book is. The book itself is in fair to good condition. Could you please give me an estimate on what the worth of this book may be? I know it wont be exactly accurate but any help would be appreciated. Thanks Rachel
About $30
Hi. I recently bought Great Expectations by Charles Dickens in fair to good condition at a yardsale and am wondering how much it is worth? Now I do understand that without seeing the book, it is difficult to give an accurate price but am wondering if you can help me accomplish this in some way. The copyright page is missing so it makes it hard to determine if it is in fact first addition or not. It does have writing on the inside “from Margie to Charles..December 25, 1900” Im not sure if this helps at all or not. If you could help me, Id greatly appreciate it. Thanks Rachel
It would be hard to tell without a publisher. Also, missing a page may deem worthless. Thanks for sharing.
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