Word Shadows of The Great - The Lure of Autograph Collecting

Thomas F. Madigan

Published by Frederick A. Stokes, 1930

About this Item

First edition, first printing with rarely seen dust jacket. The book is clean and tight, almost as new. The rare rarely seen cover is torn and missing upper and lower edges and is now protected with a clear acetate protective cover. The 1st and 2nd printings are distinguishable only on the copyright page, opposite the dedication. The 2nd printing includes the dates of the two printings. The 1st printing makes no mention of the April 21st publication date. The dust jacket is so seldom seen it is possible that it was used only for the first printing. Along with the trade issue, there were two special editions with inserted autographs. Fifty-three facsimiles are illustrated Word Shadows is one of the classic "how to" introductions to collecting that served both beginners and experienced collectors. Approaching 100 years old this is still relevant to collectors of historic autographs. Madigan set the style and format for later guides with sections on how to collect, authentication, the history of collecting and sections on popular fields. It is particularly strong and still relevant for the chapters on forgers and the references to some of the pioneer collectors, as well as the historic sales of some of their collections. Today s collectors still find this a relevant resource. This could be a working/reading copy although the more available 2nd printings are available for less money, around $25-50. This is more for the autograph/book collector interested in a first printing with the almost never seen jacket.

Seller Inventory # 6313

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Word Shadows of The Great - The Lure of Autograph Collecting
• Publisher: Frederick A. Stokes
• Publication Date: 1930
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: Near Fine
• Weight: 1.5 pounds