Deciding whether to add another reference volume to your antiquarian collectible books shelf can be tricky. You want something authoritative, but also a copy that will hold up for years of flipping through. The specific question with this Averil Mathis hardcover is whether a like-new guide to thimbles and accessories earns its place alongside your other collecting references.
Quick verdict
At $20.95, this hardcover delivers a near-mint reading and reference copy of a specialized thimble guide. The text is described as unmarked with crisp pages, and the book is in like-new condition. If you collect antique thimbles or sewing-related smalls, this is a solid buy. If you need a general antiques price guide, it is too focused.
Who it suits
This belongs on the shelf of a thimble enthusiast or a collector of sewing accessories. The large format - 11.5 inches tall, 9 inches long, and about 0.75 inches thick - makes it easy to examine details and photographs without squinting. The English-language text and the specific subject matter make it a practical reference for researching makers, styles, and accessories.
What stands out from the listed details
Antique and Collectible Thimbles and Accessories by Averil Mathis
The condition is the headline feature and the clearest reason to choose this copy. Like-new / near-mint means you are not inheriting someone else's marginalia or dog-eared pages. The description also notes it will include the dust jacket if one originally came with the book, which is a nice assurance for collectors who value complete copies. The hardcover binding, at 2.15 pounds, feels substantial enough for frequent use. You also get the ISBN (0891453229) and the author attribution to Averil Mathis for cataloging. The obvious limitation is the tight subject scope - thimbles and sewing accessories only - so if you need broader antique coverage, this single volume won't get you there.
Meaningful trade-offs
As noted, the specialized focus is the main trade-off. This is not a broad antique price guide; it zeroes in on thimbles and related accessories. If your reference needs extend to other small collectibles, you will likely need additional volumes. The price is reasonable for a like-new hardcover, but it is also a niche title, so make sure the subject matter matches your collection before committing.
Bottom line
If you are serious about antique thimbles and want a clean, hardcover reference copy, this Averil Mathis guide at $20.95 is a straightforward choice. Just be sure your collection centers on thimbles rather than general ephemera, because this one does that one subject well.
