Fine Books & Manuscripts

The Fine Books & Manuscripts department delivers scholarship, expertise, and attention to detail in appraisals, evaluations and auctions of rare and historically important material ranging from medieval manuscripts to presidential documents.

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Auctions

Services

Appraisal and Auction Services

Expert book appraisers at Skinner bring important collections and rare works with strong provenance to auction twice annually, attracting an international audience of collectors, librarians, historians and curators. Skinner book auctions achieve highly competitive prices, including the $693,500 sale of a broadside of the Declaration of Independence printed in Boston in 1776.

Book Appraisals and Consignment

Whether you are interested in consigning one rare document or a book collector’s valuable library, you’ll benefit from the scholarly analysis and personalized service of our Books & Manuscripts appraisers. We offer rare book appraisals and evaluations at our Boston and Marlborough Galleries, or you may submit items for evaluation online. Contact us to learn more about your valuable books and manuscripts. Learn about selling at Skinner.

Buying Books & Manuscripts at Auction

Boston’s annual book fair takes place on the same weekend as the fall Fine Books & Manuscripts auction at Skinner, giving both novice and seasoned bibliophiles the perfect opportunity to discover rare finds at auction. Book auctions offer rare books, first editions, decorative bindings, fine prints, botanical illustrations, signed photographs and letters, presidential memorabilia, early maps and important historical documents. Accurate condition statements and carefully researched provenance ensure that you will be happy with your purchase. Learn about buying at Skinner.