Don Quixote (The Ingenious Gentleman of La Mancha) Collector's Edition
The Easton Press · Books & Media > Collectible Books
Era / Decade
Late 20th Century (estimated 1970s-1990s)
Material
Full genuine leather binding with 22kt gold accents, archival-quality acid-neutral paper, gilded page edges, and a sewn-in silk ribbon bookmark.
Condition
Good to Very Good. The interior pages appear clean and white; however, visible shelf wear is noted on the edges, and slight scuffing may be present on the leather exterior based on standard thrift finds of this series.
Demand Level
Moderate to Strong. There is a steady market for Easton Press collectors, especially for 'anchor' titles of Western literature like Don Quixote.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$35.00 - $55.00
Estimated Retail Value
$105.00 - $125.00 (current new price from Easton Press)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings for this specific Easton Press edition range from $38 to $62 depending on the crispness of the gold gilding and the presence of the original 'Collector's Notes' insert.
Description
This is a premium Collector’s Edition of Miguel de Cervantes’ 'Don Quixote,' published by The Easton Press as part of their '100 Greatest Books Ever Written' series. It features the acclaimed John Ormsby translation, an introduction by Irwin Edman, and classic illustrations by Edy Legrand. The book is bound in luxurious genuine leather with intricate 22kt gold stamping on the spine and covers, moiré fabric endpapers, and all-around gold gilding on the page edges.
Key Features
Genuine leather binding, 22kt gold leaf details, high-quality illustrations by Edy Legrand, part of a highly collectible library series, and excellent shelf presence for home libraries.
Authenticity Indicators
The Easton Press imprint and Norwalk, Connecticut location are clearly stated on the title page. High confidence (99%) in authenticity as Easton Press books possess specific high-end tactile qualities (leather smell, moiré fabric) that are rarely counterfeited.
Flaws to Note
Common flaws for this type of book include scratches to the gold gilding on the page edges (visible when closed), fading to the ribbon bookmark, or minor 'bumping' to the corners of the leather.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for reaching international book collectors. Poshmark and Mercari are also viable due to a growing market for 'dark academia' home decor. Facebook Marketplace is recommended for a quick local sale without shipping fees.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Easton Press', 'Leather Bound', 'Collector\'s Edition', and 'Gold Gilded'. Photograph the front cover, the spine (very important for collectors), and characteristic features like the moiré endpapers and the gilded edges. Ship via USPS Media Mail to keep costs low, but ensure the book is wrapped in bubble wrap and a sturdy box to prevent corner damage.