A Treasury of Western Folklore Value Guide

Compiled by renowned folklorist B.A. Botkin in 1951, this volume serves as a definitive record of the oral traditions, tall tales, and ballads of the American Great Plains and Far West. It is highly collectible as a foundational piece of American cultural preservation that captures the rugged spirit of Western heritage.

What Is A Treasury of Western Folklore Worth?

The typical price range for A Treasury of Western Folklore is $25 - $40 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Presence and condition of the original pictorial dust jacket significantly impacts the $25-$40 price range.
• Physical state of the cloth binding, specifically looking for sun-fading on the spine or frayed corners.
• The presence of any previous owner signatures or library stamps which can decrease the value for collectors.
• Overall crispness of the internal pages and the absence of foxing or water damage to the paper.

How to Identify A Treasury of Western Folklore?

• Verify the 1951 publication date and the 'A Treasury of Western Folklore' title on the cloth-bound spine.
• Look for the original dust jacket featuring Western-themed illustrations, which is often missing in later reprints.
• Confirm B.A. Botkin is listed as the editor, as he produced a specific series of regional folklore treasuries.
• Check for the Crown Publishers imprint, the original house responsible for this first edition series.

History of A Treasury of Western Folklore

Authored by B.A. Botkin, a prominent American folklorist, this book is part of a series of 'Treasury of Folklore' books he compiled, aiming to preserve and share the rich oral traditions of various American regions. Botkin was known for his extensive collections of American folklore, and his works are considered essential resources for understanding the cultural heritage of the United States. This particular volume focuses on the distinct and vibrant storytelling traditions of the American West.