There are 200 years of publishing history behind the Brockhaus. Maybe it’s still on your shelf too. We reveal what the books are worth.
The Brockhaus used to be a must on every bookshelf. In 2006, the mammoth project was put on ice after 21 editions. Do you still have all the volumes and are wondering whether the Brockhaus can be sold lucratively? We investigated.
About 100 years ago, the individual editions were sold for twelve thalers. Today things look different. In fact, you can for Complete editions in good condition received almost 2,000 euros. However, we recommend that you do not sell hastily and have the books valued in advance. There is a big difference in sales.
Own the noble ones Gold-edged editions made of genuine leather? Here too, the selling price to be achieved depends on the number of pieces, the age and the type of issue. Some of the books are sold for less than 100 euros. As a potential buyer, you can get one or two bargains. As a seller, on the other hand, you usually don’t make any profit and would be better off keeping the good items.
If you own a limited special edition, you can still sell it quite lucratively. A total of three encyclopedias were brought onto the market in special editions.
Basically: The more carefully you maintain your Brockhaus encyclopedia, the higher the possible prices you can achieve with it.
Older editions can usually also be used sell more lucratively. Well-preserved and complete editions sell well. Another criterion is rarity. The Armin Müller Stahl Encyclopedia is the rarest on the market.
If you would like to sell your Brockhaus, contact an antiquarian bookstore or use online sales. However, you should find out more about the price in advance and take the criteria mentioned into account. Don’t sell below value; if in doubt, it’s better to keep your books.
Interview: The Timeless Value of the Brockhaus Encyclopedia
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone. Today, we’re diving into a fascinating topic that might just stir up some nostalgic memories – the Brockhaus Encyclopedia. Joining us is Dr. Anja Müller, a publishing historian and expert on encyclopedic literature. Thank you for being here, Dr. Müller!
Dr. Anja Müller: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss the Brockhaus and its enduring legacy.
Editor: Let’s start with the basics. The Brockhaus has a publishing history stretching back 200 years. What made it such a staple in households over the decades?
Dr. Müller: The Brockhaus was more than just a collection of knowledge; it was a symbol of culture and education in the home. For many families, owning a complete set was akin to having a gateway to learning. It provided reliable information in an era before the internet changed how we sought knowledge.
Editor: Indeed! You mentioned that it was “put on ice” in 2006 after its 21st edition. Can you elaborate on what led to that decision?
Dr. Müller: Yes, the rise of digital media significantly impacted the demand for printed encyclopedias. While the Brockhaus had evolved over the years, the shift to online resources made traditional formats less necessary for many consumers. Despite its rich history, it struggled to compete with instant access to information through search engines and online databases.
Editor: That makes sense. Now, for our viewers who might still have a Brockhaus set at home – are these volumes valuable today?
Dr. Müller: Surprisingly, yes! While individual editions were sold for about twelve thalers back in the day, today, a complete set in good condition can fetch nearly 2,000 euros. However, potential sellers should take caution – I advise that they have their books valued by an expert first, as the sale price can vary significantly based on condition and rarity.
Editor: So, it sounds like they could be sitting on a hidden treasure! What should sellers look for when assessing their sets?
Dr. Müller: Several factors come into play, including the physical condition of the books, whether they have original bindings, and even the presence of the accompanying illustrations or additional materials that might have accompanied particular editions. It can also be useful to know the history of the volumes – for instance, if they belonged to a notable previous owner, that can greatly enhance their value.
Editor: Fascinating insights! With the trend of digitalization, do you see a potential resurgence in interest for printed encyclopedias like the Brockhaus?
Dr. Müller: I believe so. There is a growing appreciation for analog formats, and many people are seeking to disconnect from screens and embrace physical books. Collectors and bibliophiles often find value in tangible items, and the Brockhaus, with its rich history and beautiful design, certainly fits that bill.
Editor: That’s encouraging news for enthusiasts! Before we wrap up, any final thoughts for our viewers who might have a Brockhaus collection gathering dust?
Dr. Müller: I encourage them to explore their collections. Even if they don’t plan to sell, rediscovering these volumes can spark a wonderful journey through history and knowledge. Who knows what insights or joy lie within those pages?
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Müller, for your heartfelt insights on the enduring legacy of the Brockhaus. It’s been a pleasure chatting with you!
Dr. Müller: Thank you! It’s been delightful discussing this topic.
Editor: And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. If you have a Brockhaus collection, now might be the perfect time to take a closer look! Until next time, stay curious!