Ward's Motor Record Book Value Guide

The Ward's Motor Record Book is a quintessential piece of mid-century Americana, published by John J. Ward as part of the Printing Press Co., Inc. division. These 'Ever-Ready' booklets are highly collectible for their detailed documentation of 1940s-1960s automotive costs, offering a tangible link to the personal finance habits of early car owners.

What Is Ward's Motor Record Book Worth?

The typical price range for Ward's Motor Record Book is $10 - $10 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of original handwritten entries can increase historical interest, though pristine, unused copies are often preferred by paper collectors.
• The condition of the paper and binding, specifically the absence of foxing or significant oil stains common in garage-stored items.
• The specific era of the book, with examples from the early 1940s often fetching a slight premium over 1960s versions.
• Completeness of the record book, including all original pages and the integrity of the 'Ever-Ready' cover graphics.

How to Identify Ward's Motor Record Book?

• Look for the 'Ever-Ready' branding and the John J. Ward publisher name on the cover or title page.
• Verify the origin address of Long Island City, NY, which distinguishes these from later generic reproductions.
• Check for the specific paper texture and typography consistent with mid-20th-century American printing presses.
• Confirm the presence of pre-printed columns designed for tracking fuel, maintenance, and vehicle expenditures.

History of Ward's Motor Record Book

These "Ever-Ready" motor record books were published by John J. Ward, a division of Printing Press Co., Inc., in Long Island City, NY. They provided a practical way for car owners to meticulously document their vehicle's running costs, including fuel, maintenance, and other expenditures. These books offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of personal finance and automobile ownership in the mid-20th century.