Lavender and Old Lace by Myrtle Reed Value Guide

Published in 1902, Lavender and Old Lace is a quintessential example of Myrtle Reed's sentimental romantic fiction and Edwardian book design. It is highly collectible today not just for its gentle narrative, but as a decorative object that epitomizes the aesthetic of early 20th-century American libraries.

What Is Lavender and Old Lace by Myrtle Reed Worth?

The typical price range for Lavender and Old Lace by Myrtle Reed is $80 - $100 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The condition of the decorative cloth cover, specifically the preservation of any gilt lettering or delicate ink illustrations.
• The presence of the original dust jacket, which is exceptionally rare for 1902 releases and significantly increases market value.
• Overall structural integrity, including the tightness of the binding and the absence of foxing or yellowing on the internal paper pages.
• Provenance or inscriptions that link the specific copy to notable early 20th-century book collectors.

How to Identify Lavender and Old Lace by Myrtle Reed?

• Verify the 1902 publication date on the title page or copyright page to ensure it is a first edition or early printing.
• Check for the signature decorative cloth binding, which often features intricate floral or lace-inspired motifs characteristic of the era.
• Confirm the author is Myrtle Reed, a prominent American writer known for blending romantic prose with evocative, atmospheric descriptions.
• Look for the original publisher's imprint, typically G.P. Putnam's Sons, which handled many of Reed's most famous works.

History of Lavender and Old Lace by Myrtle Reed

Myrtle Reed was a popular American author of the early 20th century, known for her romantic novels and cookbooks. "Lavender and Old Lace" is one of her most beloved works, a sentimental tale of an elderly woman's memories and the quiet beauty of her life. The book's charm lies in its gentle narrative and evocative descriptions, capturing the essence of a bygone era. Its decorative binding is characteristic of the Edwardian period's aesthetic, where books were not only for reading but also served as decorative objects in the home.