Books, Manuscripts & Maps

Overview

We have an excellent track record in the valuation and sale of antiquarian books, rare books, manuscripts, maps and historical collections. With extensive specialist knowledge in this unique field, our experienced team understands that valuable books and printed material can often appear unassuming to the untrained eye.

From rare early editions to important literary works, historic documents and collectible maps, we have helped clients achieve outstanding results through our specialist auctions. Recently, we sold a rare volume of Confucius, published by Daniel Horthemels in 1687, achieving a remarkable sale price of £5,500 (+BP).

Rare Maps, Atlases and Historical Cartography

Antique maps and atlases are highly sought after by collectors, historians and institutions worldwide. At a valuation day near Canterbury, a couple brought us an interesting map that had been stored in the back of a cupboard for many years. Following detailed research, we identified it as a rare 1732 atlas by Hermann Moll, containing 28 copper engraved maps. The atlas attracted international interest and sold for £24,000 (+BP).

Whether you have a single antique map, a collection of historic charts, or a complete atlas, our specialists can provide expert map valuations and auction advice.

First Edition Books and Collectable Literature

First editions by important authors remain consistently popular with collectors. Modern literary classics, including the Harry Potter books by J K Rowling, alongside major 19th and 20th century authors such as Charles Dickens, Lewis Carroll, Jane Austen, J. R. R. Tolkien and Ian Fleming, are highly desirable among book collectors.

We recently auctioned a first edition of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (1867), featuring illustrations by John Tenniel, which sold for £800 (+BP).

Works by influential 19th century scientists, explorers and academics are also sought after, although the condition, rarity and provenance of a book can significantly influence its value.

Illustrated Books, Natural History and Fine Art Publications

19th century illustrated books can achieve strong prices, particularly those featuring exceptional woodcuts, engravings, lithographs and detailed illustrations. Collectors are especially interested in works covering subjects such as:

• Ornithology and botanical illustration
• Natural history books
• Travel and exploration
• The Orient and overseas discoveries
• Cities, architecture and historic views

A recent first edition of Ackermann’s The Microcosm of London, a celebrated illustrated work filled with detailed scenes of London life, sold for £1,900 (+BP).

Manuscripts, Archives and Historical Collections

We have achieved considerable success handling original archive material, historic manuscripts, letters and important collections. Our specialists have sold fascinating archives including a collection of Suffragette documents and letters relating to Emmeline Pankhurst, as well as an important archive of anti-slavery material from abolitionist Samuel Starbuck, which attracted worldwide attention and sold for £23,000 (+BP).

Other notable collections include the William Curtis collection of botanical watercolours, which achieved a total of £19,550 (+BP).