Rand McNally Reliable World Atlas Appraisal
Category: Atlas
Description
This is a Rand McNally Reliable World Atlas. The cover features a colorful world map with prominent landmasses in red, yellow, and green, and oceans in blue. The title "Rand McNally Reliable WORLD ATLAS" is centered on the cover within a black and red rectangular box with a white border. A circular inset on the lower left corner exclaims "40 PAGES DOUBLE-PAGE MAPS Full Color!". The overall construction appears to be softcover, likely stapled or saddle-stitched based on the binding visible in the center. The cover shows significant signs of wear and age, including creasing, surface abrasions, and tears, particularly around the edges and corners. There is a noticeable puncture or torn-away section on the bottom right edge of the cover and a smaller tear at the bottom left corner. The paper is discolored and shows evidence of handling. The spine shows creasing, indicating it has been opened and used. The style and typography of the title suggest a manufacturing date likely between the 1930s and 1950s. The quality of the printing, while appearing faded in the image, seems adequate for the era, depicting geographical features with reasonable detail for the scale of the map on the cover. There are no visible manufacturer's marks other than the Rand McNally name and a possible catalog number "589" at the bottom left of the cover. Despite the condition issues, it represents a historical example of cartography from Rand McNally.
Appraisal Report
Based on my visual examination of the provided image of the Rand McNally Reliable World Atlas, I assess the condition as poor to fair. The softcover shows significant wear, including substantial creasing, abrasions, tears, and a noticeable puncture on the front cover. The paper is discolored due to age and handling. The spine exhibits creasing consistent with use. Authenticity is based on the visible Rand McNally branding, typography, and stylistic elements consistent with atlases from the 1930s-1950s. Market conditions for vintage atlases of this type indicate a limited demand primarily from collectors of ephemera, cartography enthusiasts, or those with a personal connection to the specific publication period. Comparables in better condition tend to fetch modest prices; examples in poor condition like this typically sell as filler items or for their historical interest rather than high collector value. The extensive condition issues significantly impact the value, outweighing any potential rarity based on its age. The "40 PAGES DOUBLE-PAGE MAPS" claim suggests it's not an exceptionally large or comprehensive volume, further limiting its high-end collectibility. Without physically examining the interior pages, binding, and publication details (like a copyright page), I cannot definitively verify completion, internal condition, or precise publication date. In-person examination would also allow confirmation of paper type, printing method, and structural integrity, providing a more accurate condition assessment. Provenance documentation could potentially enhance value but is not provided. Scientific testing is not typically applicable to this type of item for authentication.
Appraisal Value
$10-25