Civil War Memoirs Appraisal

Personal Memoirs of U. S. Grant (1885 Edition with U. S. Grant's Signature)

This item is a hardbound book titled "Personal Memoirs of U. S. Grant." The cover appears to be made of a dark-colored, possibly green or black, cloth or buckram material, indicative of late 19th-century binding practices. The title is embossed in gold lettering at the top of the cover, presenting a classic and dignified typography. Below the title, there is a prominent gold circular seal or medallion design, which contains intricate details. This seal likely features an emblem or a portrait, though the specifics are not clearly discernible from the image due to apparent wear or the resolution of the image. The overall dimensions appear to be standard for a volume of memoirs from that era, likely around 9-10 inches in height. The book shows signs of age and handling, with some visible scuffing and discoloration on the cover, particularly around the edges and corners, suggesting typical shelf wear or general use over time. There are no obvious tears or major structural damages visible, but the surface exhibits a subtle patina consistent with its age. The gold embossing, while still present and legible, shows some fading or rubbing in areas within the circular design. The craftsmanship seems solid for a popular publication of its time, designed for durability. The copyright date of 1885 and the signature of U. S. Grant dated May 23, 1885, indicate that this is likely a first edition or an early printing of his highly significant memoirs, which were published shortly before his death. The existence of a signature from U. S. Grant himself, if verified, would make this a highly unique and valuable copy. This book embodies the historical period of its publication, serving as both a literary artifact and a potential historical document.