Q: I have a book entitled Lives of the Presidents of the United States, 1896 copyright by Henry Altemus. It is listed as book 13 on your list. It is blue cloth, with Altemus’ name on the spine. The Presidents range from George Washington to Benjamin Harrison. The book is in fairly good condition, except the spine is loose, but still attached. The original cost of the book is listed inside as .50. I am eager to learn if this book is considered antique and if so, what is the estimated value.

A: This title was published in the Young People’s Library between 1896 and about 1913. Three different formats have been seen.

The books can be dated by noting the last president mentioned in the text. The earliest book therefore ends with Grover Cleveland while the latest book notes Woodrow Wilson.

I have not seen a book which lists only to Harrison who finished his term in 1893. Since this title was not published until 1896, it is hard to know why your book does not list Cleveland.

See http://henryaltemus.com/blog/?p=832.

Other formats: