Expert: Clifford H. Readout, Jr. - 10/16/2006

Question
What is the estimated value of a samuel newmans complete concordance
of the bible copywrite date 1658AD?
I came across a complete concordance of the holy bible by samuel newman
wiyh a copywrite date of 1658ad. Im pretty sure it should be in a
museum somewhere.  

Answer
This is not a Bible Study question, but one about book prices.  It is not within the realm of my expertise.  Nevertheless, I will offer my meager contribution to whatever answers you may get elsewhere.

My own library is large, but I do n ot have a copy of this concordance. Nor do I want one, becasue today's study tools and resources are so much more complete and easier to use, and produce results more quickly than book concordances.  Accordingly, the estimated value of your soncordance depends on the esteem one has for books merely because of their age.  As a concordance, nothing can compare to the Bible study tools now available, so its usefulness is almost nil.  But as an old book, it's value depends on several things.  While it is apparently a first edition, its condition will probably be a larger determinant of value than age.  There are copies of the second and third editions (1650 and later) available in the antiquarian book markets, with prices ranging from $250 and $700 dollars.  If you were to do a "Froogle" search on the name Samuel Newman you would find some copies of various editions even offered on eBay!  Later editions are selling for as little as $60.00!  So, I repeat, the estimated value id dependent on its being a first edition and in good condition.  I suspect there is little demand for it, even so, and you might not even find a old book fanatic willing to pay as much as$300.00 dollars for it.  Of course, if it were personally signed by Samuel Newman it would have greater valuse to the collectors of such things.

Do some searching on the internet.  Offer it on eBay, perhaps, and set the price you want to get as the minimum price you will accept.  Maybe you'll find a buyer.

Sorry I couldn't be of more help, but this is not my area of expertise.

CR