What is the value of a set of 1930 encyclopedia?

Answer 1

Almost nothing.

Vintage book collectors rarely want encyclopedias unless they are pre 1900.

Libraries rarely want encyclopedias unless they are current and up to date.

1959 is both out of date for information as a research book and simply not old enough to be of much collectable value.

Library sales, used book stores and thrift shops typically sell old books like this for less than $1 a piece. (I've seen entire sets of 20 to 30 books for $10 or less)

If they are (real) leather bound and in immaculate condition they may be worth slightly more than $1 a piece just for the leather itself (just be aware most encyclopedia sets were made with faux leather). But finding a collector for them even at that price will be difficult.

Unlike most books; encyclopedias simply do not hold their value well, as the information it contains is no longer current the books hold only a novelty value. Compared to most books which are read for their entertainment value, which rarely goes out of date (assuming you like the story it contains).

Answer 2

In 1977 I purchased a complete set of World Book Encyclopedia 1951 Edition at a farm auction for $0.50. For all practical purpose, the auction was all but over and the auctioneer discovered that they had not been sold. I was not going to let these books be destroyed and bid $0.50 and won the bid. Surprisingly, the set was in very, very good condition.

Answer 3

The World Book Encyclopedias were sold as a set in 1978. Recently a complete set from this year sold for about 100 dollars.

Answer 4

what is the value of 1930's encyclopedia brittanica

Answer 5

$1000