Q: I recently picked up a copy of Cranford by Mrs. Gaskell for $1. I was wondering if there is any monetary value in this book? I understand that the Altemus books are reprints but I’m having a devilishly hard time finding any information about this particular copy. It seems to be in decent shape and I’ve read through it a bit making sure the pages are all in good order.

Hopefully you can shed some light on this, since Google seems to be unhelpful at best. Even if it isn’t worth more than the $1 I paid for it, finally having some answers about it would be wonderful!

A: Your book was published in 1897 as part of the Beauxarts Series.

See: Henry Altemus Company – Beauxarts Series (earlier numbering) 47

You are right that it is a reprint.

In my opinion you paid what it is worth. But, on the other hand, I have seen books sell on Ebay for prices which I do not understand. I guess occasionally someone just has to have a book.