Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
An authentic antebellum 1844 pocket Bible printed in miniature 'Nonpareil 12mo' size by Daniel Fanshaw for the American Bible Society. It features an original embossed calfskin leather binding and includes an attached paste-down ticket from the New York Bible Society detailing its distribution mission to sailors, immigrants, and institutions.
Story
In 1844, this compact volume was produced by printer Daniel Fanshaw using revolutionary steam-driven presses in New York. Designed for portability, these small Bibles were handed to sailors at harbor docks, westward pioneers, and soldiers.
Maker / Origin
Daniel Fanshaw was the chief printer for the American Bible Society from 1817 to 1840 and continued printing significant contracts into the 1840s. He was a pioneer in American publishing, being among the first to introduce steam-powered printing presses to New York City, dramatically lowering printing costs and enabling mass distribution of literature.
Condition & Value
Fair to good antiquarian condition showing significant age-appropriate wear. Leather covers exhibit scuffing and edge loss; title page has heavy damp-staining, tape residue at the lower edge, and marginal chipping, though text blocks remain fully legible.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.