Booksellers’ tickets.

Booksellers’ tickets.

Paul and Isaac Vaillant, London; W. H. & O. H. Morrison of Washington, DC; John V. Thomas of Alexandria, VA; and J. Anderson, London.

Gift of James M. Goode.

Like binders’ tickets, booksellers’ tickets were predominantly an English-language practice in Britain and the United States from the 18th century onward. They were printed via copperplate engraving and letterpress—and later on, via lithography. They are most often found adhered to the pastedowns on the inside covers of books. Booksellers’ labels attest to the myriad activities carried out by these businesses, including stationery, engraving, and even binding.

From the collection of Rare Book School