Guns International #: 103198488

Category - Books and Magazines

Category
Books and Magazines

Two Unique Publishers' Agent Specimen Books (circa 1912)

Description:
Salesman's sample or dummy books, also called "blads." were specimen books  used by itinerant publisher's agents to entice customers to  purchase a copy of a literary work in advance of its publication and delivery. This form of marketing was common in America during the years starting just before the Civil War and continuing through the 1920's. 

A typical specimen book consisted of sample sheets contained in a sample binding. The content ran some 20-30 pages and contained text and pictures which would entice a customer to sign up for purhase of the actual book to be published and delivered shortly.The sample book might also include a printed prospectus describing the virtues of the work or edition with recommendations from well-known persons.  A customer could choose among alternative styles of binding and other options for his copy. At the end of each such book was a blank form on which the salesman entered the names, address,, and the number of copies his subscribers agreed to purchase. 

The two examples up for sale were both produced in 1912. One solicited the coming publication of a detailed story of the Titanic's sinking. The other detailed an extrordinary number of deadly natural disasters that had racked the country in the prior year.  Each is original and complete, showing wear consistent with age and use. 

The $85 price listed includes both books and free shipping to an address within the continental United States. Payment is by Zelle, money order, or cleared personal check. 

 


Price: $85.00