Books Auctions & Valuations

Overview | Results & Highlights | Valuation | News

We frequently offer books in our auctions, with a particular focus on rare editions and first prints.

Rare Books Overview

 

Our Fine & Classic and Modern Art & Design sales feature a curated selection of books available throughout the year.  Many valuable books are discovered in unexpected places—whether tucked away in an attic, passed down from grandparents, or found in secondhand bookstores.  First editions from the 1950s and 1960s have been particularly sought after in recent auctions.  For example, a first edition of The Day of the Jackal recently sold for £500 at one of our book auctions, highlighting the strong demand for rare and collectible titles.


Book Valuations

Not all old books are valuable simply because of their age, and determining a book's worth can be challenging without the help of an expert.  Fortunately, we offer a free valuation service for books submitted to our auction sales. While many books over 100 years old exist, their value can vary significantly—some may be valuable, while others may not, depending on factors like print run and rarity.  If you believe your book or collection may be worth something, we’d be delighted to take a closer look.

As with any item at auction, scarcity plays a key role in determining value.  The condition of the book is also crucial—does it have its original dust jacket?  Has it been properly cared for and stored in the right environment?  Books kept in damp conditions, such as sheds or garages, can be significantly impacted. 

Our book specialist is available to provide expert advice if you’re considering selling your books.  As one of the UK’s leading regional auction houses, we have an established client base and a broad advertising reach, ensuring that we can secure the best possible prices for our sellers.

Contact us today to discuss the sale or valuation of your books, or complete our auction valuation form for a prompt assessment.

 

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Department Specialist

James Spiridion BA (Hons)
Email: james.spiridion@wilson55.com


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We offer a free valuation service to anyone considering the sale of items through our auctions. The process is quick and simple - complete the form below and one of our specialists will get back to you promptly, either by email or by phone.

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