I Ching: The Book of Change Value Guide

This 2003 Shambhala Library edition of the I Ching features the profound Song Dynasty commentary of Neo-Confucian philosopher Cheng Yi. Translated by the prolific scholar Thomas Cleary, this specific version is highly collectible for its durable cloth-bound construction and its synthesis of ancient wisdom with modern scholarship.

What Is I Ching: The Book of Change Worth?

The typical price range for I Ching: The Book of Change is $5 - $6 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the cloth binding, specifically looking for any fading or fraying of the material.
• The presence and state of the original dust jacket or decorative elements if issued with the edition.
• Internal cleanliness, as the value of $5.00-$5.50 relies on the absence of highlighting or marginalia in the text.
• The integrity of the paper and cardboard materials used in the 2003 printing.

How to Identify I Ching: The Book of Change?

• Verify the presence of the Shambhala Library series branding and the distinct cloth-bound hardcover binding.
• Check the title page for Thomas Cleary as the translator and Cheng Yi as the primary commentator.
• Confirm the publication date of 2003 and the United States origin on the copyright page.
• Look for the signature small-format dimensions typical of the Shambhala Library collector's editions.

History of I Ching: The Book of Change

The I Ching is one of the oldest Chinese classic texts, dating back over 3,000 years. This specific edition features the commentary of Cheng Yi, a prominent Neo-Confucian philosopher of the Song Dynasty. Thomas Cleary, the translator, was a renowned scholar who specialized in translating Eastern religious and philosophical texts for Western audiences. This cloth-bound Shambhala Library edition was designed to be a durable, high-quality collector's version of the ancient oracle.