Hobbies And Interests
Instructions
Research the Bible's printing history so you understand the significance of various editions. You should be able to determine the rarity of the Bible and the market demand for it. Know the dates and importance of different Bibles including Geneva, King James, Coverdale, Matthew Tyndale, Bishop's, Rheims, Douay and the Great Bible.
Determine why you want to collect. Antique Bibles function as family heirlooms, conversation pieces, displays or for resell value.
Browse through Bibles at the online stores. When you find a Bible you are interested in, contact the stores to verify pricing and availability. If you can't find the Bible you are looking for, the store may be able to locate it for you.
Visit specialty collections like the Christian Heritage Museum in Maryland or the American Bible Society in New York. Find an antiquarian book dealer near you or go online. Most antiquarian book dealers handle Bibles.
Notice the age, size and the condition of the Bible. An older Bible generally costs more than a newer one. A larger pulpit folio costs more than a quarto bible. See if all the pages are there as the condition plays an important part in determining the value of the Bible.
Find out the provenance and any extra features of the Bible. Know who owned the Bible and if it is signed. Extra features of antique Bibles may include a Psalter, Book of Common Prayer, the Genealogy, Table of Names and Table of Things.
Determine the value and costs of the Bible. Typically, prices for antique Bibles begin at around $4,000.