Illustrated Reference Book Appraisal

The New Illustrated Encyclopedia of World History

The item is a hardback book titled "The New Illustrated Encyclopedia of WORLD HISTORY," compiled and edited by William L. Langer. The front cover features a prominent illustration of an astronaut in a full space suit, indicating a breadth of historical coverage that extends to modern times, including the space age. Surrounding the astronaut are several smaller historical images, including a portrait of Alexander Hamilton, a scene with men in period attire and an American flag, a naval battle or exploration scene with sailing ships, a dramatic landscape with fortress-like structures, a dynamic scene with figures in action, and a portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt. The overall design suggests a comprehensive historical scope. The book is bound with a white cover, which shows some visible wear and smudging, particularly along the edges and corners, indicating use and handling. The top right corner of the cover appears slightly bent or creased. The spine is not visible in this image, but given it's a large encyclopedia, it would likely be structurally reinforced. The title is printed in a combination of black and red lettering; "THE NEW ILLUSTRATED" and "Compiled and Edited by WILLIAM L. LANGER" are in black, while "Encyclopedia of WORLD HISTORY" is in a bold red, making it stand out significantly. The general aesthetic of the cover, particularly the astronaut imagery alongside historical figures, suggests a publication from the mid-to-late 20th century, likely from the 1960s or 1970s when space exploration was a major contemporary event. The quality of the printing appears adequate for a mass-produced reference work of its era.