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How to Collect Vintage Nancy Drew Books

Member
By Karen State
User-Submitted Article
(2 Ratings)
Collecting is an adventure that the whole family can take part in.
Collecting is an adventure that the whole family can take part in.

I've been collecting vintage Nancy Drew books for over two decades. My interest started with my own childhood Nancy Drew books that I loved from the late 1970's. These hardcover mystery novels are classic, intriguing and still enjoy enormous popularity.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    A lot of the fun of collecting is the thrill of the chase. There are many ways to start or add to your Nancy Drew collection ... some easier than others. My eight year old daughter and I collect together and we currently have amassed a forty novel collection. Here are some tips for acquiring these amazing books!

  2. Step 2

    Start in your own back yard...or actually the yards of your neighbors! Yard sales, garage sales, and especially larger block sales are all great places to come across older Nancy Drew books. Prices tend to be quite reasonable and often a person might be selling several of the series books at one time. You may want to quickly peek inside to be certain there is not too much handwriting. Because Nancy Drew books target a young audience you will often find that a previous owner has written there name or doodled on the inside. I don't mind names handwritten in the interior. ..I think it adds a history and charm to the book. I lean away from doodles, comments and such that go a bit further and distract from the inside content.

  3. Step 3

    Fleas markets are another source for collectors as they often have vintage book displayers there. These displayer booths may seem to have an enormous collection of books of all genres but they are often very organized so do not be dismayed if a book area looks overwhelming. Ask the owner for help ... they usually have a very detailed idea of their inventory.

  4. Step 4

    My favorite way to come across a Nancy Drew book is a cozy old vintage book shop. If it allows me to bring in my coffee... even better! These quaint stores are a treasure and remind me of the heroine, Nancy, herself. Ask for the children's section ... which then is often has a specific area for series. This is where you may come across many Nancy Drew books.

  5. Step 5

    Lastly, eBay has an unlimited amount of vintage Nancy Drew books for sale. You can purchase these as "Buy It Now" which means at a set price plus shipping or you can place bids in an auction style format. I tend to not purchase Nancy Drew books online as I truly enjoy finding books with my daughter while on vacation ... for us that adds to our collections sentimental value. I do know many people who have purchased Nancy Drew books on eBay and have found great novels to add to their collection at a wonderful price.

  6. Step 6

    Best of luck collecting. ..I hope you find all the books you are looking for!

Comments  

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on 11/7/2009 I LOVED Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys.

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on 10/16/2009 Thanks for this article! My good friend goes wild over Nancy Drew books, and she will love this article. I will pass it on! 5*

temysmom said

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on 8/8/2009 How cool. I have the entire collection of orignal Nancy Drew books. I got them all one by one when I was a kid. I was an avid reader. Didn't even realize they might be worth something. Thanks!

bekkielynn said

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on 8/4/2009 Oh I just LOVE this! Nancy Drew books were some of my most favorite reads as kids and I would love this....my daughter is only 5, but i would love to get her reading these when she is older! i can't wait to begin collecting!

skyedanzer said

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on 8/3/2009 Nice work. =]

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