We often underestimate the value of old things, especially books. But you could be sitting on a small fortune if you have a rare, out-of-print book in your collection. From classic novels to illustrated children’s books, these out-of-print gems are surprisingly valuable. Here are 13 such rarities that could earn you a pretty penny.
1. “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton
First published in 1967, “The Outsiders” is a popular novel that centers around teenage struggles and friendship. This coming-of-age book was so well-received that it was eventually adapted into a film. Early editions of this book, particularly those with a signature from Hinton herself, can fetch a handsome price. If you’ve got one in your collection, it might just be your lucky day.
2. “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak
This beloved children’s book was first published in 1963 and has been a favorite among kids and adults alike. Early editions of “Where the Wild Things Are”, especially those with Sendak’s signature, can be worth a fortune. So, if you’ve got one lying around, you might want to get it appraised.
3. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
This timeless novel, published in 1960, is a classic exploration of human morality. An out-of-print copy of “To Kill a Mockingbird”, particularly a first edition with a dust jacket, can command a high price. If you’re lucky enough to have one, you might be sitting on a goldmine.
4. “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling
The first book in the Harry Potter series was published in 1997 and quickly became a sensation worldwide. A first-edition copy of the book, especially with a hard cover, can bring in a substantial amount. It’s worth checking your collection, just in case.
5. “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger
This classic novel, first published in 1951, is a staple in American literature. An out-of-print copy of “The Catcher in the Rye”, particularly a first edition, can be worth a small fortune. If you have one, it might be time to consider parting with it.
6. “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
This iconic novel, published in 1925, is a classic portrayal of the Jazz Age. An out-of-print copy of “The Great Gatsby”, especially a first edition with the original dust jacket, can be quite valuable. If you own one, you might want to consider having it appraised.
7. “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien
First published in 1937, “The Hobbit” is a timeless children’s fantasy novel. Early editions of this book, particularly those with Tolkien’s illustrations and signature, can be worth a lot. If you have one in your collection, it might be worth more than you think.
8. “Invisible Man” by Ralph Ellison
This novel, published in 1952, is a powerful exploration of African-American identity. An out-of-print copy of “Invisible Man”, particularly a first edition, can fetch a high price. If you’re lucky enough to have one, it might be your ticket to a nice payday.
9. “1984” by George Orwell
This dystopian novel, first published in 1949, remains relevant to this day. An out-of-print copy of “1984”, especially a first edition, can be worth a significant amount. If you have one, it might be time to consider its value.
10. “Moby Dick” by Herman Melville
This classic novel, published in 1851, is a staple of American literature. An out-of-print copy of “Moby Dick”, particularly a first edition, can command a high price. If you’re lucky enough to have one, you might be sitting on a hidden treasure.
11. “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien
The fantasy trilogy, first published in 1954, has become a worldwide phenomenon. A first-edition copy of “The Lord of the Rings”, especially with the original dust jacket and map, can be worth a fortune. If you’ve got one stashed away, it’s worth getting it appraised.
12. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
This timeless romance novel, first published in 1813, is a classic piece of English literature. An out-of-print copy of “Pride and Prejudice”, particularly a first edition, can command a high price. If you’re lucky enough to have one, it might be your ticket to a nice windfall.
13. “The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis
First published in the 1950s, this series of fantasy novels has captivated readers of all ages. Early editions of “The Chronicles of Narnia”, particularly those with Lewis’s signature, can be worth a lot. If you have one in your collection, it’s time to consider its value.