The Lion Encyclopedia of the Bible Value Guide

The Lion Encyclopedia of the Bible is a quintessential 1970s and 80s reference work, prized for its accessible approach to biblical archaeology and social history. Edited by Pat Alexander and published by Lion Publishing in the UK, it remains a nostalgic favorite for collectors of vintage educational and religious literature.

What affects the value of The Lion Encyclopedia of the Bible?

• Condition of the spine and binding, as these heavy reference books are prone to cracking over time.
• Presence and state of the original dust jacket, which significantly impacts the $12-$15 market value.
• The specific printing edition, with first editions from 1978 often being more desirable to bibliophiles.
• Internal cleanliness, specifically the absence of highlighting, marginalia, or foxing on the paper pages.

How to Identify The Lion Encyclopedia of the Bible?

• Check for the original Lion Publishing imprint and the UK origin mark on the copyright page.
• Verify the editor is listed as Pat Alexander, a key figure in the series' development between 1978 and 1986.
• Look for the distinctive hardcover binding featuring high-quality color illustrations and maps characteristic of the era.
• Confirm the presence of the original dust jacket, which often features a collage of biblical artifacts and landscapes.

History of The Lion Encyclopedia of the Bible

First published in 1978 by Lion Publishing, this encyclopedia became a standard reference for families and students. It was designed to make biblical history and archaeology accessible through visual aids and simplified explanations of the social context of the ancient world.