A Poacher's Tale Value Guide

A Poacher's Tale is a highly collectible memoir that captures the authentic rural underground of early 20th-century Britain through the life of Alfred T. Curtis. Co-authored by naturalist Fred J. Speakman, this 1960 first edition is prized for its detailed historical account of poaching within England's Epping Forest.

What affects the value of A Poacher's Tale?

• The presence and condition of the original green dust jacket significantly impacts the $35-$45 valuation.
• Overall structural integrity, including the absence of foxing on the paper and crispness of the cloth spine.
• Provenance or signatures from Fred J. Speakman can increase the desirability among natural history collectors.
• Market demand for authentic British rural history and Epping Forest specific memorabilia.

How to Identify A Poacher's Tale?

• Confirm the 1960 publication date on the copyright page to ensure it is a true first edition.
• Look for the original green dust jacket featuring the title and author names prominently.
• Verify the dual authorship of Fred J. Speakman and Alfred T. Curtis on the spine and title page.
• Check for the original cloth binding beneath the dust jacket, typical of UK mid-century hardcovers.

History of A Poacher's Tale

Published in 1960, this book recounts the authentic experiences of Alfred T. Curtis, a poacher in the Epping Forest area of England. It was written down and organized by Fred J. Speakman, a noted naturalist, providing a rare and detailed look into the rural underground and natural world of early 20th-century Britain.