The Valley of the Giants Value Guide

The 1918 edition of The Valley of the Giants is a significant collectible that highlights Peter B. Kyne's narrative on the California redwoods and Dean Cornwell's early illustration work. Its historical importance is cemented by its three film adaptations, making it a staple for collectors of early 20th-century American West literature.

What Is The Valley of the Giants Worth?

The typical price range for The Valley of the Giants is $25 - $35 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The condition of the cloth cover, specifically the preservation of the Dean Cornwell illustration and spine lettering.
• The presence and state of the original dust jacket, which can significantly increase the value beyond the standard $25-$35 range.
• Overall structural integrity, including the tightness of the binding and the absence of foxing or water damage on the paper.
• The presence of any previous owner inscriptions or bookplates that might link the copy to the era of the silent film adaptations.

How to Identify The Valley of the Giants?

• Verify the 1918 publication date on the title page or copyright page to ensure it is an early printing.
• Look for the distinctive cover art illustrated by the renowned American artist Dean Cornwell.
• Check for the original cloth binding and cardboard construction typical of Doubleday, Page & Company releases from this era.
• Confirm the presence of the original frontispiece illustration which should match the style of the cover art.

History of The Valley of the Giants

Peter B. Kyne was a prolific American novelist whose works often focused on the rugged outdoors of the American West. Published in 1918, The Valley of the Giants is a story about the redwoods of California and the battle to protect them from ruthless industrial interests. The book was a major success and was adapted into three different films during the silent and early sound eras, reflecting the public's fascination with the majesty of the Sierra Nevada.