Relative Associations

Another way to determine the overall rarity of a book in question is to assess its associations with any historically significant people, organizations, or objects. That means that the book was read, handled, used, owned, annotated by a notable person, or is connected to a notable organization or movement. This is what is referred to as “association value.” These are all things to consider to determine the association value of a book:

• Who wrote the book? A book written by a major historical figure such as Abraham Lincoln or Thomas Jefferson is likely more valuable and more rare.
• Is the book signed by the individual who wrote it?
• Are there any notations by a notable individual in the book?
• Is the book original documentation of a certain museum piece?