The Book of Old Silver Value Guide

First published in 1937, Seymour B. Wyler's 'The Book of Old Silver' revolutionized the industry as one of the first comprehensive guides to catalog over 20,000 hallmarks. It remains a foundational collectible for silver enthusiasts due to its exhaustive documentation of English, American, and foreign silver marks in a single volume.

What Is The Book of Old Silver Worth?

The typical price range for The Book of Old Silver is $20 - $25 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence and condition of the original dust jacket significantly impact the $20-$25 price range.
• Overall physical condition, specifically the integrity of the cloth binding and lack of foxing on the paper pages.
• Edition number, with first editions from 1937 generally holding more interest for bibliophiles than later reprints.
• Provenance or previous ownership marks from noted antique dealers or silver scholars.

How to Identify The Book of Old Silver?

• Verify the 1937 original publication date or early Crown Publishers editions for historical accuracy.
• Check for the distinctive cloth binding and the presence of the original dust jacket, which often features silver-toned typography.
• Ensure the interior contains the comprehensive hallmark tables covering English, American, and international makers.
• Look for the author's name, Seymour B. Wyler, clearly printed on the title page and spine.

History of The Book of Old Silver

First published in 1937, this work became a foundational text for antique collectors and dealers. It was one of the first comprehensive guides to list over 20,000 hallmarks of English, American, and foreign silver in a single volume, making it an indispensable tool for identifying and authenticating antique silver plate and solid silver.