The scarlet letter

This is a book in great condition. I want to sell but don’t know how much

1892 Edition of The Scarlet Letter
Author: Nathaniel Hawthorne
Publisher: Henry Altemus, Philadelphia
Publication Date: 1892
Format: Hardcover, 3" x 4"
Condition: Excellent
Category: Books and Manuscripts

Description & Authentication

This is an ornate Victorian-era edition of Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter: A Romance, published by the noted Philadelphia publisher Henry Altemus in 1892. This publisher is known for their high-quality miniature and decorative editions during the late 19th century.

The book features a richly embellished spine and front cover with elaborate gilt-stamped scrollwork and filigree, which was a hallmark of Altemus's aesthetic style. The cover bears a silhouette cameo motif and gold embossed text on a red cloth binding with cream accents.

The title page typography, the publisher’s mark, and binding design all align with authentic Altemus publications from that period. This is not a first edition of The Scarlet Letter (originally published in 1850), but it is a desirable collectible due to its design, craftsmanship, and publisher’s renown.

Condition

• The binding is tight and intact.
• Gilt decoration is well-preserved.
• Minimal wear is visible along the edges, typical for its age.
• Pages appear clean, with no water damage, foxing, or annotations.
• The spine and boards show no significant warping or fading.

Historical Significance

Henry Altemus editions are often collected for their ornate bindings and small, shelf-friendly formats, especially among collectors of decorative Victorian literature. While not rare in the strictest bibliophilic sense, copies in this level of condition are increasingly hard to find.

Estimated Value (2025)

• Retail/Dealer Price: $75–$125
• Private Sale/Fair Market Value: $50–$90
• Auction Estimate: $40–$60

Values can rise if paired with other Altemus decorative volumes or as part of a collection of Hawthorne's works.

Collector’s Notes

• Store this book in a climate-controlled, low-light environment to preserve the delicate cloth and gilt.
• Avoid excess handling to retain the sharpness of the gilt and cloth texture.
• You might consider a professional book box or clamshell case for long-term archival storage.

If you're interested in a formal insurance appraisal or want to sell this through a rare book dealer or auction house, a certified rare book appraiser (via ABAA or ISA) would be the next step.