Washington Merry-Go-Round Value Guide

Published anonymously in 1931, Washington Merry-Go-Round revolutionized political journalism by exposing the private lives and scandals of D.C. elites. This cloth-bound tell-all is highly collectible for its historical impact and the subsequent revelation of authors Drew Pearson and Robert S. Allen.

What Is Washington Merry-Go-Round Worth?

The typical price range for Washington Merry-Go-Round is $15 - $25 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Presence and condition of the original dust jacket, which significantly increases desirability.
• Overall physical state of the cloth binding, including any fading, fraying, or water damage.
• The specific printing edition, with first printings commanding the top end of the $15-$25 range.
• Internal condition, specifically the absence of foxing, marginalia, or torn pages.

How to Identify Washington Merry-Go-Round?

• Verify the 1931 publication date on the title page or copyright page.
• Check for the original cloth binding, typically featuring the title in a period-specific typeface.
• Confirm the absence of author names on the cover, as the initial editions were published anonymously.
• Look for the publisher imprint, often Horace Liveright, Inc., to ensure an authentic first-era printing.

History of Washington Merry-Go-Round

Published anonymously in 1931, 'Washington Merry-Go-Round' created a sensation by exposing the personal lives and political machinations of prominent figures in Washington D.C. The authors, later revealed to be Drew Pearson and Robert S. Allen, used their insider knowledge to paint a vivid and often critical picture of the nation's capital. The book's controversial nature led to widespread discussion and a significant impact on political journalism.