Massachusetts: A Guide to Its Places and People (1937, not authenticated)

This physical item is an open hardcover book displaying a title page from the American Guide Series. The page features black printed text on an off-white, cream-colored paper stock with visible texture. At the top, the header reads 'AMERICAN GUIDE SERIES'. Below this, the main title is printed in large serif capital letters: 'MASSACHUSETTS', followed by the subtitle 'A GUIDE TO ITS PLACES AND PEOPLE'. A thin horizontal rule separates the title section from descriptive text stating: 'Written and compiled by the Federal Writers' Project of the Works Progress Administration for the State of Massachusetts', and 'FREDERIC W. COOK, SECRETARY OF THE COMMONWEALTH, COOPERATING SPONSOR'. Further down, the word 'Illustrated' appears in italics above a small publisher device depicting a figure playing a pipe seated upon a fish or dolphin. Below the device, a horizontal line sits above the publisher imprint reading 'HOUGHTON MIFFLIN COMPANY - BOSTON', followed by 'The Riverside Press Cambridge' and the year '1937'. The overall physical characteristics, fonts, and layout are consistent with mid-20th-century American book publishing standards. The page appears clean with minimal discoloration, suggesting fair preservation, though overall condition cannot be fully assessed from a single interior page. The identification of the publication details rests directly on the legible text printed on the page. The user-supplied context noting a 1937 copyright and excellent condition is unverified by physical inspection.

Based on the provided image of the title page, the item bears characteristics consistent with the 1937 publication of 'Massachusetts: A Guide to Its Places and People' from the American Guide Series, produced by the Federal Writers' Project. The owner notes a 1937 copyright and excellent condition, which I cannot fully evaluate from a single photo of an interior page. WPA guides are collectible regional history items, particularly first editions retaining their original dust jackets and fold-out maps. Assuming the owner's assessment of excellent condition holds true upon physical inspection, and assuming the presence of the original map (often tucked into a rear pocket), fair market value typically ranges from $50 to $100. Without physical examination to evaluate the binding, completeness of pages, map inclusion, and dust jacket condition, this estimate remains a working assumption. A copy lacking the map or exhibiting significant binding wear would likely command a lower value, typically $15 to $30. Physical inspection by a rare book specialist would be required to fully assess the edition status and complete condition.