A Peculiar Treasure (First Edition)
Doubleday, Doran & Company · Books & Media > Antiquarian & Collectible
Era / Decade
1939 (Late 1930s)
Material
Hardcover bound in blue cloth with gold-gilt lettering and embossed decorative patterns; paper pages.
Condition
Fair to Good. There is significant fraying and wear at the top and bottom of the spine (head and foot). The cloth is fading/discolored on the spine, and the gilt lettering shows some rubbing. Does not include original dust jacket.
Demand Level
Niche. Specifically sought after by collectors of vintage memoirs, fans of Edna Ferber, or those looking for authentic 1930s library decor.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$10.00 - $25.00
Estimated Retail Value
$3.00 - $5.00
Comparable Sales
Recent sales for this edition without a dust jacket range from $8 to $15 plus shipping on eBay. Signed copies or those with intact dust jackets can fetch $75-$150+.
Description
A 1939 first edition autobiography of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Edna Ferber. This volume features the iconic blue cloth binding with decorative blind-stamping characteristic of the original Doubleday release. Edna Ferber, author of 'Show Boat' and 'Giant', provides a personal look at her life as a Jewish woman in America. This is a significant piece for collectors of 20th-century American literature or Ferber completists. Approx 600 pages.
Key Features
First edition status; Pulitzer Prize-winning author; Jewish-American historical interest; decorative vintage shelf appeal (Dark Academia aesthetic).
Authenticity Indicators
Publisher name (Doubleday, Doran) and 'First Edition' usually stated on the copyright page for this era; proper dimensions and cloth texture. Confidence Level: High.
Flaws to Note
Missing dust jacket (greatly reduces value); fraying of the cloth at spine ends; bumping of corners; spine sunning/fading; potential foxing on interior pages due to age.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for reaching book collectors), Etsy (if sold as a 'vintage prop' or decor item), or AbeBooks for serious bibliophiles.
Selling Tips
Take clear photos of the copyright page to confirm first edition status. Photograph the spine damage clearly to manage buyer expectations. Ship via USPS Media Mail to keep costs low. Use keywords like 'Autobiography', 'Vintage Decor', 'First Edition', and 'Jewish American History'.