The Young Carthaginian by G.A. Henty (1903 HC no DJ) 

•    Author:                George Alfred Henty (1832–1902) 

•    Illustrator:            C. J. Staniland, R.I.

•    Publisher:            The Federal Book Company     New York, NY    U.S.A    1903  

The Young Carthaginian, A Story of The Times of Hannibal  by G. A. Henty.  The Young Carthaginian chronicles the struggle of the Second Punic War (218-203 BC) and the attempt of Hannibal to conquer Rome.  At first, the struggle of Carthage against Rome was a struggle for empire, but it became a struggle for existence. 359pp. 

George Alfred Henty (1832–1902) was a prolific English novelist and war correspondent.  He is best known for his historical adventure stories that were popular in the late 19th century. 

The date range of this copy’s printing is easy to state as 1902-1904.  That is the date range The Federal Book Company was stated as publisher of books otherwise published under F. M.  Lupton name.  We chose 1903 as date for printing of this copy.  This is a rare copy because of the limited time for use of this publisher name. 

Hardcover has green cloth boards with 2 colors (black & red) illustration & lettering on front and spine, but no DJ.  Gold lettering for title on spine.  Page edges are tinted green.  Bottom corners square, boards show little shelf-wear, however head of spine and head of front cover, top page edge shows wear as if filed down.  Interior is complete tight, and clean.   Front facing end page has gift inscription and POS on front paste-down adds no value. Text unmarked and carefully handled.  End papers have browned, but interior has remained bright and white. 

•    Size:  12mo - over 6¾ - 7¾" tall,    359pp.

•    Condition:  Fair Hardcover, no Jacket  –   Always privately owned. 

No copyright, publication nor printing dates.  1903 print date determined as above.  Likely a pirated reprint.  No ISBN nor LCCN.   MSR = US $0.50, postage paid. 

Notes on Condition/Edition ratings:

Fine – means like new, but any book produced over 10 years ago isn't “brand new” or even “new.”  Booksellers needed some word to describe this...

Like New – A new book, no marks no damage (except maybe remainder marks or shelf-wear) except not obtained directly from the publisher or in packaging from the publisher. 

Good – How someone else might take care of a book. Also referred to as “standard.” This is the most likely condition for books of this age & title, shows the book has been read or previously owned.  

 Acceptable – How a young child, student or a librarian might take care of a book. (Either trying to make sure someone doesn't steal it by plastering ownership everywhere, filled it with copious notes or a book that has been damaged.)

Poor – Combination of “acceptable” factors above. Most likely with water damage as well. Might have

missing pages (you should ask).

Near – Means “almost” in an optimistic sense. e.g., “Near Fine” means very good, but on the high end.

1st Thus – Unique somehow, maybe 1st paperback, new illustrator, misprint or even the 1st edition. A collector might desire this copy.