sell books and free appraisal services
We are established booksellers and book buyers in Manchester with years of experience in the trade. We are proud members of the PBFA, and all our valuations and offers of purchase are conducted according to the guidelines of conduct.
Sell your Books to Us
We buy single volumes up to large collections. We specialise in First Editions, Antiquarian Books, Signed Books, Folio Society’s, Jane Austen, Science Fiction, and Rare and Secondhand Books.
In addition to this, we are also interested in ephemera, maps, comics, and zines, as well as handwritten items such as diaries, letters, logbooks, and postcards.
We offer fair and competitive prices for the books we buy.
We are currently based in Didsbury South Manchester, however, regularly do calls all over the UK, including London, Leeds, Liverpool and Glasgow.
We deal with a wide range of price points for books and works on paper, and aim to deliver the same level of service for a first JG Ballard or Agatha Christie as we would for more general secondhand books.
We are happy to offer free appraisals!
what’s Next!
Step 1 - Connect with Us!
Fill out the adjacent form and provide details about your rare books, including any first edition books you wish to sell. Be sure to include essential information such as edition, author, condition, and any other relevant details. Feel free to upload images as well—even a photo of the spines works!
Step 2 - Expert Appraisal
After receiving your submission, we will carefully review the information provided for your rare and first edition books. We might contact you for additional details if needed. In some cases, an in-person inspection may be necessary, and we can arrange either a house call or a visit to our location.
Step 3 - Receive an Offer
If your books are of value and interest we will then make you a fair and competitive offer. Any offer we present is entirely non-binding—you’re free to decline if it doesn’t suit you.
Step 4 - Quick PAyMent, The Sooner THe better!
Once we’ve agreed the purchase the sooner we get them the happier we are - and we appreciate you’ll feel the same way about being paid! So upon handover (and of course inspection) we’ll transfer the money direct to your account.
Finding the Value Of Rare And FIrst Edition Books
The rare book market can be complex, but understanding key factors can help you sell your valuable books with confidence. If you're thinking about selling rare books or first editions, here's what you need to know.
Condition
The condition of your book is crucial in determining its value. For modern first editions, the dust jacket can significantly affect the price. Books with intact dust jackets—especially older ones—are far more valuable. Even books in less-than-perfect condition can be worth a lot if they are rare. Whether you're selling a first edition Agatha Christie or Ian Fleming, the condition will influence your selling price.
Edition
First editions are the most sought-after by collectors. A first edition of a famous title, like Casino Royale, can fetch thousands more than a later printing. If you're selling a first edition, make sure to confirm it with us. We also buy limited editions and unique variants like illustrated editions or those published in special formats.
Scarcity & Rarity
Books with smaller print runs, signed copies, or first editions are especially valuable. A rare copy of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, for example, can be worth tens of thousands of pounds. If you have a signed first edition, it's likely to be worth even more. We specialize in buying scarce and limited-edition books, offering top prices for these treasures.
Pop Culture & Demand
The value of a book is often linked to its popularity and the demand for it. First editions of iconic authors like Agatha Christie, John le Carré, and Ian Fleming are highly sought after. If you own books by these authors, their value could increase based on trends, anniversaries, or movie adaptations.
Provenance
A book's history can boost its value. If your rare book has notable previous owners or contains marginalia, this can make it even more desirable to collectors. If you’re thinking of selling your books, let us help you assess their provenance.
Sell Your Rare Books to Manchester Rare Books
If you have rare first editions, limited editions, or collectible books, we’re here to help you unlock their true value. Our expert team provides fair pricing and a smooth selling process, whether you’re selling a single book or an entire collection. Get in touch with us for an appraisal today, and trust Manchester Rare Books to offer a seamless selling experience.
For a more expansive post on what makes Rare Books Valuable we have a full length articel available on our blog!
More Information!
Selling your rare first edition books to Manchester Rare Books offers an excellent opportunity to unlock the true value of your collection. With our expertise in rare first editions, we ensure you get top market value for your books. We buy all sorts of rare first editions, so whether you’re clearing space or looking to sell a significant collection, we can help. Our process is straightforward and hassle-free, making it easy for you to discover the wealth in your bookshelves. Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you every step of the way, providing fair pricing and exceptional customer service. Trust us to offer a rewarding and efficient selling experience that puts your needs first.
At Manchester Rare Books, we purchase a wide range of rare and interesting titles, including modern first editions and antiquarian books. Whether you have a single rare find or an entire collection, we are interested in your books. However, we regret that we are not currently purchasing Harry Potter books from The Goblet of Fire onwards unless they are signed.