Uncle Wiggily and His Friends Value Guide

Uncle Wiggily and His Friends is a quintessential piece of mid-century Americana, featuring the iconic elderly rabbit created by Howard R. Garis. This 1955 Platt & Munk edition is highly collectible for its high-quality production and vibrant illustrations that brought the Newark Evening News character to life for a new generation.

What Is Uncle Wiggily and His Friends Worth?

The typical price range for Uncle Wiggily and His Friends is $18 - $20 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence and condition of the original dust jacket significantly impacts the $18-$20 price point.
• Internal condition, specifically the absence of crayon marks or 'scribbling' common in vintage children's books.
• The vibrancy of the color plates and whether the cloth binding remains tight and unfaded.
• Provenance or evidence of being a first printing of the 1955 Platt & Munk edition.

How to Identify Uncle Wiggily and His Friends?

• Verify the publisher is Platt & Munk Co. Inc. with a 1955 copyright date.
• Check for the signature 'rheumatiz cane' held by Uncle Wiggily Longears in the illustrations.
• Confirm the construction materials include a sturdy cardboard hardcover with a cloth-reinforced spine.
• Look for the specific Howard R. Garis author credit on the title page and cover.

History of Uncle Wiggily and His Friends

Uncle Wiggily Longears, an elderly rabbit with a rheumatiz cane, first appeared in the Newark Evening News in 1910. Created by Howard R. Garis, the character became one of the most popular figures in American children's literature, spawning thousands of short stories and a highly successful board game. This specific edition by Platt & Munk is known for its vibrant illustrations and high-quality production which helped sustain the character's popularity through the mid-20th century.