The Victor Book of the Opera Value Guide

First published in 1912 by the Victor Talking Machine Company, this guide was an essential companion for early gramophone owners to navigate their record collections. It remains a highly collectible piece of music history, offering a unique window into how the United States embraced opera through early recording technology.

What Is The Victor Book of the Opera Worth?

The typical price range for The Victor Book of the Opera is $100 - $150 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of the original dust jacket, which is exceptionally rare for 1912 editions, significantly increases value.
• Overall physical condition, specifically looking for spine integrity and the absence of foxing on the internal pages.
• Completeness of the volume, ensuring all illustrations and historical context sections are intact.
• Market demand for early 20th-century music memorabilia and Victor Talking Machine Company ephemera.

How to Identify The Victor Book of the Opera?

• Verify the 1912 copyright date on the title page to confirm it is the true first edition.
• Check for the Victor Talking Machine Company logo and branding throughout the text and on the cover.
• Look for specific references to Victor Records catalog numbers accompanying the opera plot summaries.
• Confirm the construction consists of period-authentic cardboard binding with heavy paper stock.

History of The Victor Book of the Opera

First published in 1912 by the Victor Talking Machine Company, 'The Victor Book of the Opera' was created to help gramophone owners understand the operas they were listening to. It provided plot summaries, historical context, and information about the recordings available on Victor Records, becoming an indispensable companion for opera enthusiasts during the early 20th century. Over its many editions, it has served as a significant resource for introducing audiences to the world of opera.