Overview
The item is definitively identified by its printed cover, which explicitly states the title, publication date (March 1907), volume, and issue number. The publisher's office address in London is also present.
Identification
The Annals of Psychical Science, March 1907 (Vol. V, No. 27)
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
'The Annals of Psychical Science' was a prominent early 20th-century journal that attempted to apply scientific rigor to spiritualist phenomena. Directed by notable figures like Nobel laureate Charles Richet, it captures a unique historical intersection of science and the occult. The specific provenance of this copy is unknown beyond the previous owner's name inscribed on the cover.
Maker / Origin
The Annals of Psychical Science
Condition & Value
Based on the provided front cover photo, the item exhibits typical wear for a century-old softcover periodical. Visible condition issues include edge wear, chipping, and significant spine damage. A handwritten name is present in the top right corner.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Market Analysis
The secondary market for early 20th-century psychical and occult periodicals is niche but dedicated, driven by collectors of spiritualism history and early parapsychology. Single issues of common journals from this era typically move slowly unless they contain landmark essays or are bundled into lots. Buyers are primarily found on specialized antiquarian book platforms and eBay, where condition and completeness dictate the final price.
Value Drivers
▲ Exact title and date match to known historical psychical research journals anchors the baseline demand.
▲ Subject matter (early parapsychology/occult) appeals to a dedicated niche collector base.
▲ Presence of original printed wrappers, despite wear, maintains its historical integrity.
Concerns
▼ Unverified interior completeness — missing pages or cut-outs would severely discount the value as a reading/reference copy.
▼ Visible spine damage and edge chipping limit the appeal to condition-sensitive collectors.
▼ Unidentified cover signature — if just a common previous owner, it acts as a slight condition penalty rather than an association premium.
Best Venue
List as a Buy-It-Now on eBay or a specialized antiquarian book marketplace for $35, with offers accepted. To maximize buyer confidence and justify the higher end of the range, provide clear photos of the spine, back cover, and the title page, explicitly confirming that all interior pages are present and securely attached. If the interior is heavily damaged or missing pages, expect to settle closer to $15-$20.
Upside Potential
If the handwritten name on the cover can be definitively traced to a notable figure in early 20th-century spiritualism or psychical research, the item could transition from a standard reference copy to an association copy, potentially pushing the value above $75.