How we acquired a 80-Book Lot of The Limited Editions Club
We were shopping for bookshelves when we came across a beautiful heritage bookshelf for sell in Ardsley, NY. We contacted the ad, and although they were away on vacation, we were persistent on being new owners of this book shelf.
We called them back the day they said they'd be home from vacation. Within the hour, we were on our way to pick it up. However, something incredible happened during the conversation while on the way to pick up the bookshelf. We were offered the opportunity to purchase the books still on the shelves. Of course! Without seeing or knowing what these books would be, they ended up being an 80 book set of The Limited Editions Club dating back to the 1930s.
What was exceptionally unique about these gems was their history. The set had been sitting in its original owners home, the grandmother of the seller, for almost 80 years. They were then passed forward to the grandson, who was now selling them to me. As a book enthusiast I could only imagine his grandmother turning over in her grave once that sell was finalized!
What are The Limited Editions Club?
The Limited Editions Club (LEC) was a publishing company that produced finely crafted, limited-edition books from 1929 to 2010. It was founded by George Macy, a book collector and enthusiast who wanted to publish, for subscribers, finely made, illustrated editions of classics of world literature and thought. The Club was the longest lasting and most successful of several similar ventures to bring fine book-making to a wider audience. Each volume was issued in an edition of either 1,500 or 2,000 copies.
Macy started the LEC in 1929 with the goal of producing high-quality, limited-edition books that would showcase the finest examples of printing, typography, and bookbinding. Each book was produced in a limited print run and was signed by the author and the illustrator, if applicable.
The first book produced by the LEC was "Candide" by Voltaire, which was illustrated by Rockwell Kent and printed by the Pynson Printers in New York City. The book was produced in a limited edition of 1,500 copies and was an instant success, selling out within weeks of its release.
From there, Macy went on to produce a wide variety of books, including classic literature, modern poetry, and works of non-fiction. He worked with some of the most talented artists, designers, and printers of his time, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Salvador Dali.
In addition to producing high-quality books, the LEC also became known for its elaborate and innovative designs. Many of the books produced by the LEC featured unique bindings, slipcases, and other special features that made them stand out from other books on the market.
Over the years, the LEC continued to produce books that were highly sought after by collectors and book enthusiasts. Some of the most notable books produced by the LEC include "The Divine Comedy" by Dante Alighieri, "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald, and "The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam."
What happened to LEC?
In 1968, Macy sold the LEC to Sidney Shiff, who continued to produce high-quality limited-edition books under the LEC name. Shiff was known for his dedication to quality and his commitment to preserving the traditions of fine bookmaking.
The LEC continued to produce books until 2010, when it was acquired by the Folio Society, another publisher of fine books. Although the LEC is no longer producing new books, its legacy lives on in the many books that it produced over the years, which continue to be highly prized by collectors and book lovers around the world.
Some Limited Editions Club books can be relatively affordable, with prices ranging from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. However, many Limited Editions Club books are highly sought after by collectors and can command prices in the tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
For example, a first edition copy of "The Great Gatsby" produced by the Limited Editions Club and illustrated by Francis Cugat can fetch upwards of $50,000 or more at auction. Similarly, a copy of "Ulysses" by James Joyce illustrated by Henri Matisse can command prices in excess of $100,000.
It's worth noting that the Limited Editions Club produced a range of books at different price points, so it is possible to find affordable editions for those who are interested in collecting LEC books but are not able to invest significant sums of money.
Where can I find them?
Online everywhere, a simple google search of The Limited Editions Club will take you there.
This summer, we will be showcasing our collection. Call to make an appointment with us (just to affirm we are there). (518)-416-6079
Recent Auctions of The Limited Editions Club collections:
Limited Editions Club | A remarkable run of Limited Editions Club Publications
by Sotheby's
Limited Editions Club
by Hindman