Dear Mr. Scheidelman,
I recently acquired a number of Zane Grey books (copyright pre-1920) and would like to find out if they have any value. I live in Old Forge and I’m not sure where to find information on these books.
I saw your article in The Weekly Adirondack and thought you might be able to help.
D.J., Old Forge
Dear D.J.,
First let me say I am a general line antique dealer, books are not my specialty. But I will do my best to help you. I know Zane Grey is a very collectible author and westerns in general are sought after. After receiving the additional information I requested from you which was the title, copyright date, edition and condition of each book I have some information that may be helpful.
Some of the titles you asked about are: “Nevada” 1928, “Riders of the Purple Sage” 1912, “West of the Pecos” 1937 and “The Last Trail” 1909.
Condition, as described by you ranged from very good with dust jacket to fair or poor with signs of wear and use and most were not first editions but second, third or later printings.
From the information I received from my book dealer friend and research online most of your books are worth between $5 and $15 with a few as high as $35.
Now, this is just a general estimate. To be certain you should have them examined first-hand by a book dealer who has knowledge and expertise in this area.
You can also look online at Amazon.com and alibris.com, both of which have antique and collectible books listed for sale.
