Sell your old books and first editions with us
We buy old books, with a particular interest in first editions, hand illustrated and leather bound books; with immediate payment and the highest prices paid, avoiding unnecessary fees. Book a valuation for your old books and first editions with our highly qualified experts, today. Sell your old books with Hepplewhites, all from the comfort of your own home.
Unrivalled expertise in old books, first edition and antique leather bound books
We specialise in acquiring first editions, leather bound books and antique hardbacks, with a particular focus on works by renowned authors and celebrated children’s book illustrators such as Arthur Rackham.
Why sell your old books with Hepplewhites?
Traditionally, those seeking to sell old books or an antique book collection – be it first editions, hand-illustrated examples, or leather bound books – might assume a public auction to be the most effective approach to get the best prices for their items. However, because of the current buyer’s premium of 30% (inclusive of VAT), the buyers bidding on your items will reduce their bids accordingly.
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Additionally, an auction house will also charge you a seller’s fee, illustration fee and insurance, as well as VAT, meaning that if your old books sell you will only receive 45% of their true value and if not, you will still be responsible for paying the auction house certain fees.
In addition, it may take up to three months after the auction house consigns your pieces for the first appropriate sale to occur and at least another month until you are paid, making a total of four months minimum before you receive any payment. Any unsold pieces will be re-entered into another sale, often taking several months before another suitable sale for old books is available. Furthermore, since the item has already been exposed to the market, you will have to lower your price to encourage the sale, as your item will now be less appealing to potential customers.
Choosing Hepplewhites gives you peace of mind that you will receive true market value for your items; a streamlined and discreet approach to selling old books, without the risk of going unsold, or delayed payments. We pay 100% of our valuation to you.
No auction fees
Over 30 years’ industry experience in the antique book market allows us to accurately value your old books and first editions and ensure you obtain the highest prices possible.
Immediate payment
Transactions are handled securely and transparently, ensuring that you as a seller and us are fully protected throughout the process. Once a price has been agreed, Hepplewhites will issue an immediate bank transfer there and then before any books are taken.
The comfort of your own home
Our customers prefer having their old books valued by our experts in the comfort of their own home, saving the need to unnecessarily take items out in public, while cutting down on travel time and costs.
What type of old books can you sell to Hepplewhites?
Get in touch to sell your old books, first editions of leather bound antique books with Hepplewhites, for an expert valuation and immediate payment following home visit.
We are particularly interested in books by famed authors and children’s book illustrators, such as Arthur Rackham.
How do we value old books?
Edition and rarity
First editions, limited print runs, or early copies of significant works (especially those with printing errors later corrected) tend to be the most valuable. Signed or inscribed copies by the author further enhance desirability.
Condition and completeness
Books in excellent condition, with intact bindings, clean pages and minimal foxing (spots / browning) or damage, are highly prized. Missing pages, detached covers, or restoration can significantly impact value.
Binding & materials
Fine bindings add value, including full or quarter leather, gilt tooling and elaborate embossing, particularly if crafted by renowned bookbinders. Original dust jackets on modern first editions are also crucial.
Illustrations & special features
Hand-coloured plates, woodcuts, or engravings by famous illustrators, as well as unique features like fore-edge paintings, maps, or fold-out diagrams, make books more collectible.
Have old books to sell?
Contact us and speak to an expert today for your free valuation
