What is the approximate value of a gutenberg bible today

History · Middle School · Sun Jan 24 2021

Answered on

The value of a Gutenberg Bible today is quite high due to its historical significance and extreme rarity. Estimates suggest that a complete Gutenberg Bible could be valued at anywhere between $25 million to $35 million or even more. The last sale of a complete Gutenberg Bible took place in 1978 for $2.2 million which, adjusted for inflation, would be nearly $9 million today. However, the book market and the value of such rarities have increased substantially since then. Partial copies or individual leaves (pages) can sell for tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on their condition and provenance.

Extra: The Gutenberg Bible, also known as the 42-line Bible, was the first major book printed using mass-produced movable metal type in Europe. It marked the start of the "Gutenberg Revolution" and the age of the printed book in the West. It is named after Johannes Gutenberg, the man who is credited with its invention. The production of the Gutenberg Bible originated in Mainz, Germany, in the 1450s. Today, there are only 49 known copies in existence, and of those, only 21 are complete. These copies are held primarily by museums, libraries, universities, and private collectors. The Gutenberg Bible is not only a valuable collector's item but also a monument of historical significance, illustrating the transition from manuscript to print culture. It played a key role in the spread of knowledge and literacy in the Renaissance period and is considered to be one of the most important books in human history.

Related Questions