Antique Bible Collecting

One of the beauties of owning these antique treasures is that they have already survived hundreds of years of use and are so well made that they will last many more. They typically increase their value over time. They become more and more difficult to find as they are snapped up by collectors and institutes.

Rare Antique Bibles are often available with new leather bindings which is normal as they do deteriorate over time. If you find that the antique bible you wish to buy has a tattered unattractive binding, you can have it rebound in your choice of designs. It can also be embossed with things like your family crest and have additional end papers added to record your family tree. This is of course, if it is to be a family heirloom. You may not wish to do this with an investment piece.

1. How old it is
2. It's condition
3. Any pages missing
4. How many of this printing still exist
5. Is there a history behind this bible
6. Is it something a collector would want
7. Is it a first or early printing
8. Was it owned by anyone famous
9. Is it signed

Don't place too much importance on the condition of the binding, as this does not effect the value of the piece. Leather bindings usually need replacement every 300 or so years, so most antique bibles will have been rebound at least once.

The most important parts of the antique bible are the content pages. The better condition the text and pages are in the greater the value of the piece. Remember, when this Antique Bible was made, they didn't use thin, flimsy rice paper to print on. They used thick acid free cotton. The pages were stitched together and were designed to last!

Remember, the older and larger the bible is the more value it has. If there are additional features such as illustrations, almanacs, maps, decorative edgings etc, the value will increase.

For some beautiful Antique Bibles and a huge range of other Rare Books go to Rare Books. Make a quick jump over and check it out now.