The Complete Works of Horace Value Guide

The Complete Works of Horace HC (FC86-1-R) | eBay
The Complete Works of Horace
Estimated Value
$15 – $30
Period
1910-1940
Origin
United States
Materials
cloth, paper, gilt
Category
Book set

This early 20th-century edition of The Complete Works of Horace represents the era's movement to bring Roman classics to the general public through affordable, durable cloth bindings. Produced between 1910 and 1940, these volumes are prized by bibliophiles for their elegant gilt lettering and their historical role in midcentury private libraries.

What Is The Complete Works of Horace Worth?

The typical price range for The Complete Works of Horace is $15 - $30 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 fraying or sun-fading on the spine.
  • The brightness and preservation of the gilt lettering, which can rub off over time.
  • The presence of any original dust jackets, which significantly increases the scarcity and value.
  • Internal condition, including the absence of foxing, marginalia, or cracked hinges.

How to Identify The Complete Works of Horace?

  • Check for a cloth-bound hardcover with distinct gilt lettering on the spine or front cover.
  • Verify the publication date or publisher style consistent with the 1910-1940 period, such as Modern Library or similar US reprint houses.
  • Look for the specific inclusion of the full collected works of Quintus Horatius Flaccus rather than individual poems.
  • Examine the paper quality and binding style typical of early to mid-20th century American mass-market classics.

History of The Complete Works of Horace

Works of Horace (Quintus Horatius Flaccus) have been collected and translated since the Renaissance. This particular cloth-bound edition reflects 20th century reprint styles used by Modern Library and similar publishers that produced affordable classics for general readers. Such editions were commonly issued in the 1910s–1940s and were popular as collectible sets in midcentury libraries and private collections.

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