Preliminary identification

Signed First Edition of 'It Changed My Life' by Betty Friedan

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A first edition, first printing of Betty Friedan's seminal collection of essays and memoirs documenting the evolution of the women's movement. This specific copy features a personal inscription and signature from the author on the front flyleaf.

Story

In 1976, Betty Friedan looked back at the revolution she helped spark with 'The Feminine Mystique.' This book captures the raw, real-time struggle of a movement that redefined the American family and workplace forever.

Maker / Origin

Betty Friedan was a titan of social change and the first president of the National Organization for Women (NOW). Her work is credited with awakening the consciousness of millions of women, moving them from domestic isolation into the public sphere.

Condition & Value

The dust jacket shows some light surface soiling and minor edge wear, but remains intact with the original $10.00 price. The signature is clear and bold with no evidence of ink bleeding. Condition is very good for its age, which helps maintain the value.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.