Napoleon and His Marshals Value Guide

This 19th-century biographical work by American historian Joel Tyler Headley is highly collectible for its vivid, spirited prose that popularized military history in the United States. First published in 1846, these volumes are prized by Napoleonic scholars for their detailed accounts of the tactical brilliance and personal lives of the French Empire's top commanders.

What affects the value of Napoleon and His Marshals?

• The presence and preservation of the original gold leaf detailing on the spine and cover.
• The physical condition of the 19th-century paper, specifically looking for minimal foxing or water damage.
• Completeness of the set, as individual volumes like Volume II typically command lower prices than a matched pair.
• The integrity of the cloth binding and the presence of any original engravings or illustrations.

How to Identify Napoleon and His Marshals?

• Check for the author name J.T. Headley and the specific title 'Napoleon and His Marshals' on the spine and title page.
• Verify the mid-19th-century publication dates, typically ranging from 1846 to 1850 for early editions.
• Look for original period materials including cloth-bound boards and decorative gold leaf lettering or detailing.
• Confirm the volume number, as this specific work was originally released as part of a two-volume set.

History of Napoleon and His Marshals

First published in 1846, this work by American historian J.T. Headley became an immediate bestseller. Headley was known for his 'vivid' and 'spirited' prose, which brought military history to the masses. This specific edition is the second volume of a two-volume set, focusing on the tactical brilliance and personal lives of the men who helped build the French Empire.