The Holy Bible containing the Old Testament and the New, extremely rare, 1658

Description: The Holy Bible containing the Old Testament and the New, newly translated out of the originall Tongues and with the former Translations diligently compared and revised by his Majesties Speciall Command (Appointed to be read in Churches) London Printed by John Field, one of His Highness’ Printers, 1658 This is the famous and remarkably rare “pearl Bible,” named for its tiny print. The condition of this particular volume is Good. It is remarkably free of significant flaws, considering that it is 366 years old. In fact, antiquarian booksellers have ascertained that fully a century and a half ago, 19th century bibliographers considered a copy in good condition to be a rare find. This rare volume would make a significant addition to any antiquarian book or Bible collector's holdings. This "pearl" Bible's historical significance is intriguing. Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658), the English statesman, politician, and soldier, became England's "Lord Protector" in 1653 following his role in numerous brutal military campaigns as well as the execution of King Charles I, both of which played a role in establishing the Commonwealth of England. Cromwell retained his title and role (and turned down an offer to be named King of England) until his death in 1658, the same year he ordered copies of this diminutive Bible distributed to his troops for daily use and guidance and, presumably, to carry into battle. The binding and pages of this rare volume are fully intact, page edges are gilt, some foxing at page margins. Condition: Good+. 2 ½” x 4 ½", engraved title page. An ownership plate on the inside of the front cover identifies one previous owner as "Chris Taddy," whom we have not been able to identify. Unfortunately, we have not been able find an invoice or documentation among my father's papers indicating when and where he bought this volume. Note from the photographs that this volume features two woven-in cloth strands used for marking one's place in the text. The photographs also feature a partial view of one page, because we dare not fully open the book, although the pages and binding are fully intact. Opening the book fully is an opportunity for the person who purchases it.Please research competing offers. One rare book dealer advertises a copy in lesser condition for nearly twice the price. My late father, born in 1929, was a global traveler and business man for 75 years, and he bought this copy as a young man, probably in the mid-20th century. This rare book has been carefully stored in a controlled (and, of course, smoke-free) environment all these years until his death two years ago, when ownership passed to me and my brother. We have priced this rare volume quite fairly, as any well-informed viewer can quickly ascertain for themselves. However, we will not leave it on eBay for much longer, as it looks like a private sale would be more remunerative.

Price: 1200 USD

Location: Littleton, Colorado

End Time: 2024-12-03T18:07:33.000Z

Shipping Cost: 0 USD