Welding Book Appraisal

Lessons in Arc Welding, Second Edition

This item is the title page of a vintage instructional book titled "Lessons in Arc Welding," identified as the "SECOND EDITION." The page is made of what appears to be cream-colored paper, showing a slight discoloration consistent with age, suggesting a good overall condition with typical age-related patina rather than significant damage. The text is printed in a dark, likely black, ink. Prominently displayed is the publishing information, indicating that the book was produced by "THE LINCOLN ELECTRIC COMPANY" located in Cleveland, Ohio. Further details include distribution offices for Lincoln Electric in Canada (Leaside, Windsor, Montreal, Hamilton), the UK (Welwyn Garden City, Herts, England), and Australia (Alexandria, Sydney). A key historical detail is the publication year, clearly marked as "1942" at the bottom of the page, placing it squarely within the WWII era, a period of significant industrial growth and demand for skilled trades like welding. The original price is listed as "50 cents postpaid in U.S.A." and "75 cents elsewhere." While no explicit maker's marks or signatures are visible beyond the publisher's name, the association with a well-known industrial company like Lincoln Electric suggests a publication of high quality for its intended purpose. The overall aesthetic is utilitarian and educational, characteristic of technical manuals from the early to mid-20th century. The visible condition is good, with no apparent tears, creases, or major foxing, though the full extent of the book's condition cannot be assessed from this single page.