The Indian Races of North and South America Value Guide

This 19th-century volume by Charles De Wolf Brownell serves as a significant historical attempt to document the customs and history of Native American tribes across the Western Hemisphere. It is highly collectible for its ornate Victorian-era gilt-stamped cloth binding and its status as a staple of mid-1800s American libraries.

What affects the value of The Indian Races of North and South America?

• The presence and vibrancy of hand-colored plates significantly increase the market value compared to standard black and white versions.
• The condition of the gilt-stamped cloth binding, specifically the amount of gold leaf remaining and the lack of fraying at the spine.
• Completeness of the text block, including all maps and illustrations, which are often removed for individual sale.
• The specific edition year, with earlier 1850s printings often commanding more interest than later 1860s reprints.

How to Identify The Indian Races of North and South America?

• Check for the author name Charles De Wolf Brownell and the specific title covering both North and South America.
• Verify the presence of the ornate blind-stamped or gilt-stamped cloth covers typical of the 1853-1865 publication period.
• Look for hand-colored illustrations which are characteristic of the premium editions of this ethnographical work.
• Confirm the publisher's mark and date on the title page to ensure it is an original mid-19th-century printing.

History of The Indian Races of North and South America

First published in the mid-19th century, this volume was a significant attempt to document the customs, history, and lives of Native American tribes across the Western Hemisphere. It became a staple of American libraries during the Victorian era and is noted for its ornate blind-stamped covers and hand-colored illustrations in premium editions.