Children's Books Are Big Collector Items

Although for hundreds of years children's books have been hot collector items, J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series has brought out new collectors.

As with all books, it is the first editions that are valuable. I doubt very highly many out there actually have a first edition of "Harry Potter and The Philosopher's Stone" from the series as only about 300 were made. These are valued at $10,000-$20,000 apiece and getting higher every day. If you believe you have a genuine first edition, bring it to a reputable auction house for verification.

Many collectors of children's books seek stories they were read to as a child. First editions are often hard to find, but for many early editions can also be valuable. Charging $25 or more for a book from the early 1900s regardless of edition is not unheard of these days. The content and condition of the book are important. Wear the spine or pages bring values down tremendously regardless of age. If there is a book cover, the value does rise.

Values really depend on the book itself. Many are more sought after than others.

For example a first edition "The Hunting of the Snark in Agony" by Lewis Carroll features an advertisement for "Alice in the Looking Glass" in an 1876 edition. In mint condition with dust jacket and advertisement it can go for around $10,000.

Sometimes the value becomes greater due to other circumstances such as the advertisements.

Some books are just valued as to the content and the edition. A 1902 Beatrix Potter book called, "The Tale of Peter Rabbit" had only about 2,000 copies made and is worth about $7,000.

But, not all first editions are quite that valuable. A few excellent books with some unexpectedly low values include "Hans Andersen's Fairy Stories" from 1930 and "The Old Nursery Rhymes" illustrated by Lawson Wood and published by Thomas Nelson in 1930. They only are valued around $30-$50.

A 1950 "Wonder Tales of Great Explorers" by Robert Finch is only valued at $10.

Book values are a funny thing. Since the creation of online auctions such as eBay, values have dropped. It is because so many more seem to be available now. Books that were valued at $500 for example, may now be purchased for $100. It is the extremely rare books with limited runs that hold the most value.

When seeking a children's book remember a first edition is always worth something. That goes for any book. Someone out there is seeking a first edition so if the cost is low, it is worth buying.

As with all collector items, you will need to purchase a good price guide before you go to far. A good gage of the value can be found on amazon.com or eBay.

As you search for books at flea markets, tag sales or in basements, be on the lookout for color photographs or pull-outs in good condition. Those always increase value. If a book is signed by the author, the value rises dramatically.

If there is any other writing in the book, it decreases dramatically. Pen and pencils marks are a big turnoff for buyers. Many children's books also have crayon marks as they were meant for children.

Little Golden Books are very popular. Each book has a letter in the crease of the front or back page. The letter A is often a first edition. Be careful as it could be a first edition of a second or third printing. Books are very funny that way.

Always be cautious, buy books you like and buy them cheap. That way no matter what they are worth, you will always be a winner.