The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer Value Guide

The Canterbury Tales, Geoffrey Chaucer, the Easton Press, 1978, the 100 Greatest Books Ever Written, Collector's Edition, Burgundy Leather - Etsy
The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer
Estimated Value
$70 – $100
Period
1978
Origin
United States
Materials
Leather, paper, 22kt gold accents
Category
Chaucer

This 1978 Easton Press edition of Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales is a prized volume from the '100 Greatest Books Ever Written' series. It combines the foundational 14th-century Middle English text with premium American craftsmanship, making it a staple for serious bibliophiles.

What Is The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer Worth?

The typical price range for The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer is $70 - $100 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Physical condition of the leather, specifically looking for any 'shelf wear' or rubbing on the gold leafing.
  • The presence of the original 'Notes from the Archives' booklet which often accompanied these collector editions.
  • Integrity of the internal binding and the absence of foxing or yellowing on the acid-neutral archival paper.
  • Market demand for specific titles within the '100 Greatest Books' series, with Chaucer remaining a consistent favorite.

How to Identify The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer?

  • Check for the distinctive genuine leather binding with deep hubbed spines and 22kt gold accents.
  • Verify the 1978 copyright date and the Easton Press imprint located in Norwalk, Connecticut.
  • Look for the signature high-quality features including moiré fabric endpapers and a sewn-in silk ribbon marker.
  • Confirm the presence of all-over gilt page edges which should be bright and reflective without significant scuffing.

History of The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer

Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales' is a cornerstone of English literature, written in Middle English in the late 14th century. The Easton Press is renowned for producing high-quality, leather-bound collector's editions of classic literature, often as part of their '100 Greatest Books Ever Written' series, making these editions sought after by bibliophiles.

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