Basquerie (1927) Hardcover Edition
Grosset & Dunlap (G&D) · Books & Media > Fiction / Vintage Literature
Era / Decade
Late 1920s (specifically 1927). Identified by the Grosset & Dunlap blind-stamp on the bottom right and the orange typography common for this edition which reprinted the original Harper & Brothers release.
Material
Hardcover bound in teal blue cloth with orange stamped lettering; acidic paper pages typical of the era.
Condition
Good to Very Good. The binding appears tight and the front board retains vibrant orange lettering. There is visible corner bumping and shelf wear on the spine. Missing the original dust jacket, which significantly impacts collectible value.
Demand Level
Niche. While Eleanor Mercein Kelly was a popular writer of her time, demand today is limited to specialized book collectors and those interested in Basque culture.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$10.00 (Low) - $18.00 (Mid) - $28.00 (High if first G&D state with clean pages)
Estimated Retail Value
$2.50 in 1927, which is approximately $45.00 in today's inflation-adjusted purchasing power.
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sales for non-jacketed G&D editions of this title range from $8 to $15 plus shipping. First editions with dust jackets from Harper & Brothers can fetch $50-$100.
Description
A classic work of romance and travel by Eleanor Mercein Kelly set in the Basque country of the Pyrenees. This Grosset & Dunlap edition features a striking blue cloth board with debossed publisher logo and bright orange titles. A wonderful addition to a vintage library or for collectors of early 20th-century travel fiction.
Key Features
Classic 'G&D' reprint collectible; attractive shelf appearance with high-contrast orange-on-teal; historical regional fiction that has a niche following among collectors of Basque-related literature.
Authenticity Indicators
G&D blind-stamp logo in lower right corner of front board; font style matches known late-1920s Grosset & Dunlap reprints. High confidence in authenticity.
Flaws to Note
Missing dust jacket is the primary flaw. Minor sunning to the spine, bumped corners, and likely age-toning/foxing to the internal pages due to the paper quality used in 1920s reprints.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for niche books via Media Mail), Etsy (as a decor item or vintage artifact), or a local used bookstore that specializes in antiquarian/vintage finds.
Selling Tips
Market this to 'Basque Heritage' collectors as much as book collectors. Use high-quality photos of the front, spine, and title page. Ship via USPS Media Mail to keep costs low. Mention that it is the G&D edition specifically.