DEFINITIONS OF CONDITION

In an effort to prevent misunderstandings, we have listed below the definitions of the condition of books as we try to describe them.  These definitions were originally listed in the AB Bookman magazine, but have been modified here for our purposes.

1.As New is used only when the book is in the same immaculate condition in which it was published. There are no defects, no missing pages, no library stamps, etc., and the dust jacket or slipcase (if it was issued with one) is perfect, without any tears, rubs, scuffing or marks. There are no (blind) stamps, book plates, or markings with pen or pencil of any kind. In short, the book is as if it were new from a publisher.

2.Fine approaches the condition of As New, but without being crisp. If the jacket has a small tear, or other defect, or looks worn, this is noted.

3.Very Good describes a used book that shows some small signs of wear—but no tears—on the binding and/or pages.  Any defects are noted. The book is not soiled, scuffed, stained, or spotted, and does not have loose joints, hinges, pages, etc. (The dust jacket may have some small tears, but no pieces missing).

4.Good describes the average used and worn book that has all of its pages or leaves present. The book may have some soiling, scuffing, stains, and spots, and may have loose joints, hinges, pages, etc. The book does not have any missing pages, maps, plates, or photos. Minor wear will show at the top and bottom of the spine as well as on the corners.

5.Reading Copy is a worn book that has complete text pages (including those with maps or plates) but may lack end papers, half-title, etc. (all of which are clearly noted).  Binding, jacket (if any), etc., may also be worn.  All defects are noted.

6.Ex-library copies (private or public libraries) are always designated as such, no matter the condition of the book.  If the book has a library blind stamp, a library sticker, or any other markings, it is noted.

7. Binding Copy describes a book in which the pages or leaves are in very good to fine shape, but the binding is very bad, loose, off, or nonexistent, and the book should be considered for rebinding.

Please note that in all cases we list the following: jacket, slipcase, signature by the author, numbered limited edition. If the limited edition number is not a regular number, it is noted. We also note if the book has been rebound, and describe the color and binding material. 

In the case of modern books published from 1960 onward, the condition of the jacket and/or slipcase is noted. The value of a book from a modern publisher (Amwell, Safari Press, etc.) is greatly influenced by the condition of the jacket and slipcase. Especially in the case of Amwell, which housed all its books in paper-covered slipcases, the condition of the slipcase is paramount.

We always report the following: blind stamps; anything written in ink beyond the neatly written name of a previous owner; any stickers (unless small stickers of a bookseller in the back of the book); book plates not on the first or second page of the book (also called the pastedown and the front free end paper); any ink stamps; anything perforated; anything embossed; any marks with felt-tip pens.

WORLD WIDE HUNTING BOOKS
15621 Chemical Lane # A
Huntington Beach, CA 92649, USA.
Tel 714-894-9557  
info@safaripress.com