On the Interpretation of Statutes, Sixth Edition (1920) Appraisal
Category: Legal Textbook

Description
This item is the title page of a legal textbook titled "On the Interpretation of Statutes," appearing to be the sixth edition. The physical characteristics visible include aged paper, likely a thick, quality stock, exhibiting a cream or off-white color that has developed a subtle, even patina consistent with its age. The print is in black ink, clear, and well-defined, using a sans-serif typeface for the main title and authors' names, and a smaller serif font for the detailed publisher and author information. The page shows minor wear at the edges, particularly the right side, which is slightly discolored and frayed, indicating handling and age. There are no major tears, stains, or significant damage visible on the title page itself, suggesting a "good condition" overall for a book of this vintage. The layout is classical and well-balanced, with centered text blocks. Notable details include the primary author, Sir Peter Benson Maxwell (deceased at the time of this edition), and the editor, W. Wyatt-Paine. The publishers are listed as Sweet and Maxwell, Ltd. in London (3, Chancery Lane) and The Carswell Co., Ltd. in Toronto (19, Duncan Street). A copyright or publication date of 1920 is clearly visible at the bottom of the page. The presence of two major legal publishers from different countries suggests a wide distribution and importance of this legal treatise. The term "SIXTH EDITION" implies the ongoing relevance and updates to the original work, a testament to its value and authority in legal interpretation. There's a faint, darker mark or possibly a previous owner's stamp in the top right corner, reading "JOSEPH & POWELL, Q.C.", which could indicate ownership by a Queen's Counsel, adding a layer of provenance and historical interest.
Appraisal Report
Upon examining the provided image of the title page for 'On the Interpretation of Statutes, Sixth Edition (1920),' and considering the owner's assessment of 'Good condition,' I can offer a professional appraisal. The visual evidence strongly supports the authenticity of this legal textbook. The aged paper, consistent patina, clear black print, and the detailed publisher information (Sweet and Maxwell, Ltd. and The Carswell Co., Ltd.) align perfectly with publications from 1920. The 'SIXTH EDITION' designation underlines its established authority at the time. The minor edge wear, discolored and frayed right side, and subtle aging are entirely expected for a book of this vintage, reinforcing the stated 'Good condition' rather than detracting from it significantly. The faint mark "JOSEPH & POWELL, Q.C." adds interesting provenance, suggesting ownership by a legal professional, which can enhance its historical appeal. In terms of market conditions, first and early editions of seminal legal texts like Maxwell's are sought after by legal historians, academics, and collectors of rare books. While the market for such specialized texts is niche, demand for well-preserved examples remains steady. This isn't a rare book in the sense of only a few copies existing, but a nearly 100-year-old legal treatise in 'Good condition' from a prominent author and publishers does command respect. Comparables for similar editions of legal treatises from the early 20th century in comparable condition typically fall into this range. Factors that significantly impact value include its age, notable author (Sir Peter Benson Maxwell), the book's foundational role in statutory interpretation, its condition, and the verifiable 1920 publication date. The specific provenance, if definitively linked to a notable Q.C., could moderately increase value, but this is often difficult to prove without further documentation. My primary limitation in full authentication is the lack of physical examination. While the image is clear, I cannot assess paper quality, binding integrity, full page completeness, or detect subtle repairs or water damage that might not be visible on the title page alone. An in-person examination would allow for a tactile assessment of paper consistency, binding tightness, detection of foxing/acid damage on internal pages, and a more thorough verification of the 'Good condition' claim across the entire volume.
Appraisal Value
$100-200