Q: I recently came across 2 books at a sale and was intrigued by their covers. Both were published by Henry Altemus, Philadelphia. They are in very good condition, but I can’t find a date. The information on the website informed me they were published before 1900. Would you be able to supply me with more information? The one on the left is “Essays” by Lord Francis Bacon and the one on the right is “Sesame and Lilies” by John Ruskin.
Thank you.

A: I have included both pages where you can find both of your books.

This site is for the Sanspareil series. Your book (on the right) is an 1898 book. http://henryaltemus.com/series/series162.htm

This site is for the Vademecum Series. Your book (on the left) is an 1897 book. http://henryaltemus.com/series/series179.htm

Both books are part of an Altemus publisher’s series. They are reprints and only have nominal value.