Q: Dear Expert: I have just found an old book, Black Beauty, and the publisher is Henry Altemus Company. I cannot find a publishing date and all pages appear to be intact with some damage to the cover and the binding. There is a notation on the front cover back of No. 49. Could you please enlighten me as to the date of publication. Should I spend money with a conservator to have it restored? My appreciation for your assistance in advance.

A: Your book can be found here with the 1903-1904 books. http://henryaltemus.com/series/series143.htm

Most of the books of the publisher’s series are reprints and have only nominal value.

It would not be worth getting restored.