How to buy right

Learn the edition points for any author you collect seriously before you spend significant money. The points are published in the relevant bibliographies and often documented on the specialist dealers' websites. Examine condition carefully and sceptically. Dealers describe condition according to conventions that are not universally shared

Words like near fine and very good mean different things to different people. When buying from auction, attend previews if possible and examine copies in person. Photographs are selective and condition issues are easy to omit. Buy from ABAA or ABA members where possible for any significant purchase

The membership standards provide a level of accountability that private sellers do not. For significant purchases, consider engaging a specialist bibliographer for an independent opinion.

CollectorGrade take

Condition in rare books is more complex and more consequential than in most other collector categories. The difference between a fine copy and a good copy of the same book can be a factor of five in value. Develop an accurate eye for condition before you spend seriously.