11 Old Books Worth More Than Your Car (And How to Spot Them)

Ever wonder if that dusty old book on your shelf might be worth a small fortune? From rare first editions to long-forgotten limited prints, valuable old books might be hidden in your attic or a thrift store.

Whether you're a casual reader or a weekend treasure hunter, knowing how to spot these gems can help you make extra money on the side, sometimes a lot of money. Here are 11 types of books that can bring in some serious cash, along with tips for finding valuable volumes yourself.

This specific subset of first editions is valuable not necessarily because of errors but because of purposeful changes to the books.

Nancy Drew fans might know that the original books had 25 chapters and have since been cut to 20. However, those first-format books also included illustrations. You'll find listings for a single book from that collection for around $4,000.

Visuals increase a book's worth to collectors, and books featuring famous or rare illustrations can be incredibly valuable, sometimes even more so than the text itself.

For example, a first edition of "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" with illustrations by John Tenniel can command thousands of dollars, especially if it's in good condition.

Printing errors can increase the value of books because they make them unique, even if the books are not first or limited editions. One well-known example occurs in earlier editions of "The Sun Also Rises," where readers can find the word "stoppped." In 2021, a copy sold for $14,739.

A handwritten diary can be more than just interesting; it can be worth thousands. For example, a diary by Salvador Dalí with sketches of nude women is valued at around $60,000.

You're less likely to find valuable diaries in a thrift store than you are in the private collection of someone who knew the person well or possibly at an estate sale.

First editions are prized by collectors because they represent the original, unaltered debut of a book, and can feature anything from a misprint to a publisher marking that can become lost to time. Notable first editions include "The Grapes of Wrath," which is valued at around $17,500.

These books may be labeled "first edition," have a "1" in the number line on the copyright page, or have a known first-edition error.

A limited-run print or edition refers to a reproduction limited to a certain number, with each item bearing its number. You can often identify limited-edition books by their distinctive covers.

The Folio Society Limited Edition printing of "The Lord of the Rings" series sold out despite its $1,500 price tag. The series included new artwork that was also signed.

Vintage cookbooks may be more valuable than you realize. A famous chef as an author, a signature, or the book's age can all contribute to that value.

"La Cuisinière Bourgeoise, Suivie de l'Office" is a unique example because it focuses on recipes for the bourgeoisie, as its detailed design clearly shows. A copy in the original French can sell for more than $500.

Some of the best-selling books of all time are religious texts, such as the Bible. You can currently find a 17th-century version of the Bible, containing both the Old and New Testaments, available for $5,200.

Having a previous famous owner can also increase the value of a religious book or text, so it's worth opening the cover to look for a list of prior owners.

Fans are often willing to pay a lot for a book signed by their favorite author. If that author has passed, signed copies can become even more valuable.

Sometimes, signatures from someone other than the author can also make a book valuable, as is the case for one copy of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" signed by the movie cast. It's currently for sale for $5,000.

These can include books that were previously thought to be lost by accident and those purposely destroyed. Sometimes it's the author who does the latter.

Lewis Carroll was known for his almost obsessive concern over the details of his published books, demanding that the publisher destroy those that did not meet his standards. That's why the third edition of "Through the Looking-Glass" and "What Alice Found There" costs over $30,000.

Vintage comic books can sell for millions, as with Action Comics #1, with the first appearance of Superman published in 1938.

Typically, age is a factor, and it also affects the price. To maintain the value of your comic book, consider placing it in a plastic cover.

Many rare books fetch astonishing prices from serious collectors, especially if they fall into multiple categories. Whether it's a first edition tucked away in a forgotten box, a beautifully illustrated classic, or a rare print with historical significance, old books can be worth far more than you'd expect.

With a bit of research and a sharp eye, you might uncover literary treasures hiding in plain sight. Before you donate that stack of dusty hardcovers, take a closer look — you could be holding something that's not just a great read but a golden opportunity to boost your bank account.