Ben-Hur A Tale of the Christ Value Guide

This 1908 edition of Lew Wallace's historical masterpiece represents a 'Wallace Memorial Edition' published by Harper & Brothers to honor the author's legacy. As a cornerstone of American literature that surpassed 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' in sales, this specific printing captures the early 20th-century fascination with the Roman Empire and the life of Christ.

What Is Ben-Hur A Tale of the Christ Worth?

The typical price range for Ben-Hur A Tale of the Christ is $20 - $60 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Overall condition of the cloth binding, specifically looking for sun-fading on the spine or frayed corners.
• The presence and integrity of the internal hinges and the tightness of the text block.
• Completeness of the volume, including all original pages and any included illustrations.
• Provenance or unique markings, though general market value typically stays within the $20 to $60 range.

How to Identify Ben-Hur A Tale of the Christ?

• Verify the 'Harper & Brothers' imprint on the title page and the 1908 copyright date.
• Look for the 'Wallace Memorial Edition' designation, which distinguishes this from standard trade printings.
• Check for the original cloth binding, typically featuring period-appropriate decorative stamping or typography.
• Confirm the presence of any specific illustrations or frontispieces included in this commemorative release.

History of Ben-Hur A Tale of the Christ

First published in 1880, 'Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ' quickly became a bestselling American novel. Its immersive narrative, set in the Roman Empire during the time of Christ, captivated readers worldwide. The book's enduring popularity led to numerous editions and adaptations, including a groundbreaking Broadway play and several successful film versions, with the 1959 epic film starring Charlton Heston being the most famous. This particular edition is a 'Wallace Memorial Edition', indicating it was likely published to honor the author's legacy.