Q: Hello, I recently bought this Altemus copy of Milton’s Paradise Lost at an estate sale. I find no publication date. the copy is in fine condition.
Interestingly, it included an 8 sided fold out catalog stuck in the front cover. Considering the age, the catalog is in remarkable condition.
I’m curious about the publication year, value and rarity of these items. I’ve sent some pictures, yet the lighting filter kept changing. Thank you for any info.

A: Your book is from the Dore Masterpieces Series. It appears to have the pebbled cloth and is therefore a Format 2 book. These volumes were published between 1889 and 1901.

I think is is fair to assume that the advertising flyer was printed at about the same time as the book. It can provide some hints at the date. The Dore Bible Gallery in German is pictured. This was initially published in 1892.

Also noted in the ad is Addresses by Drummond. This format was published between 1891 and 1893. See: http://www.henryaltemus.com/images/NS_2.htm

Thus, I would think your book was published in 1892-1893.

Those books in pretty good shape can sell for $50-150. Totally unpredictable.

The advertising flyers are fairly uncommon. I have seen one other 8 page flyer and it is different from yours. I would price it at $25-50. See: http://www.henryaltemus.com/flyers/flyer-S78.htm