THE SCIENCE OF GEMS, JEWELS, COINS, AND MEDALS, ANCIENT AND MODERN.
London: Bell & Daldy, et al. 1867. First edition. 8vo, original blue cloth, handsomely decorated in gilt; mounted photograph of a cameo on upper cover; all page edges gilt. xi, (1), 221, (1) pages; advertising leaf; illustrated throughout; 18 fine photographic plates; 1 lithographic plate. Binding somewhat worn, with spine head torn and joints cracking; very good or so. Item #7779
The scarce first edition of this handsomely produced work, including 18 fine photographic plates, mostly depicting cameos, engraved gems and seals, but also of coins and medals, including ancient Greek coins and modern British issues. We believe this to be the earliest photographically illustrated British book to include images of coins. It is also likely to be the first such book to be reprinted, as a second edition appeared in 1875. Billing’s work remains of continued relevance today (Cambridge University Press reprinted it in paperback in 2014). Sigler 236. Sinkankas 642.
Price: $300.00