Overview
Definitively identified via the title and copyright pages, which serve as the publisher's mark. The imprint confirms Hearst's International Library Co. as the publisher, with a clear 1914 copyright date.
Identification
The Arabian Nights Entertainments, Volume I (New National Edition, 1914)
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Story
This edition features the landmark 19th-century English translation by orientalist Edward William Lane, which was highly influential in introducing Middle Eastern folklore to Western audiences. Published in 1914 by Hearst's International Library Co., it represents a standard, mass-market publisher's cloth binding typical of the era, designed for general readership rather than high-end collection. The secondary market for early 20th-century reading editions of classic literature is highly polarized.
Maker / Origin
Hearst's International Library Co.
Condition & Value
Based on the provided photos, the volume exhibits standard shelf wear consistent with its age, including minor rubbing to the cloth binding and gilt lettering. The structural integrity appears intact, though a full assessment of the interior pages for foxing, tears, or marginalia is pending.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Market Analysis
The secondary market for early 20th-century reading editions of classic literature is highly polarized. Complete, well-preserved sets maintain steady demand among collectors and decorators, often commanding premium retail prices. Conversely, individual 'orphan' volumes typically move slowly and are primarily sought by buyers looking to complete their own partial sets, resulting in a much lower price ceiling.
Value Drivers
▲ Exact match to the 1914 Hearst's International Library Co. edition anchors the baseline.
▲ Features the respected Edward William Lane translation, maintaining baseline academic and historical interest.
▲ Gilt spine detailing and blind-stamped cloth present well for decorative purposes.
Concerns
▼ Unverified set completeness — if the remaining volumes are absent, the item is relegated to the much lower 'orphan volume' market.
▼ Unverified interior condition — hidden foxing, torn pages, or handwritten notes would discount the value further.
▼ Missing dust jacket (typical for age) prevents the volume from reaching peak collector condition tiers.
Best Venue
If this is a standalone volume, list it on platforms like eBay or Etsy in the $15-$20 range, targeting buyers seeking replacement volumes, and clearly state 'Volume I Only' in the title. If the remaining three volumes are present, bundle them together as a complete set, which could justify an asking price closer to $300.
Upside Potential
If the seller can confirm possession of the remaining three volumes in similar condition, the item transitions from a replacement part to a complete set, shifting the valuation range significantly upward toward the $300-$360 tier observed in complete-set comparables.
▾Also found — market-range context
Related comps outside the valuation band· 5 comps
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.
Also found — market-range context
Related comps outside the valuation band· 5 comps
- Complete 40-Vol Set: The Works of Charles Dickens (Vintage 1914 Hearst New National Edition) AntiqueDifferent book entirely (Works of Charles Dickens).$600
- eBay'Arabian Nights' Edward William Lane (1877 3 Vol Set Illustrated)Different edition (1877) and a 3-volume set.$365
- Bonhams· 2003-09-16ARABIAN NIGHTS The Thousand and One Nights, 3 vol.Different edition and a 3-volume set.$120
- eBayWorks of Charles Dickens 8 volumes New National Edition Hearsts InternationalDifferent book entirely (Works of Charles Dickens).$99
- eBayWORKS OF HENRY FIELDING New National Edition Hearst's Int'l Library 6 Vol SetDifferent book entirely (Works of Henry Fielding).$60