Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Typography • Calf Binding • Tail Band

Presentation Copy

Term from Rare Book Dealing industry explained for recruiters

A Presentation Copy is a special type of book that was given as a gift by its author, publisher, or someone significant, usually with a handwritten note (called an inscription) inside. In the rare book industry, these books are considered more valuable than regular copies because they provide a direct connection to the author or another important person. Think of it like having a signed baseball, but for books - it adds personal history and makes the book more unique and desirable to collectors.

Examples in Resumes

Authenticated and cataloged over 50 Presentation Copy books from notable 20th century authors

Specialized in identifying and valuing Presentation Copies and inscribed volumes

Successfully sold several high-value Association Copy and Presentation Copy items at auction

Typical job title: "Rare Book Dealers"

Also try searching for:

Rare Book Specialist Antiquarian Book Dealer Book Appraiser Rare Book Cataloguer Rare Book Librarian Special Collections Curator

Where to Find Rare Book Dealers

Professional Organizations

Online Resources

Events

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you authenticate a presentation copy and determine its value?

Expected Answer: A senior dealer should discuss examining the inscription's authenticity, researching provenance, considering the relationship between inscriber and recipient, and analyzing market trends for similar items.

Q: What factors would you consider when pricing a significant presentation copy for auction?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of market conditions, historical sales data, condition assessment, significance of the inscription, and understanding of current collector interests.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you identify different types of inscriptions and their significance?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the differences between casual signatures, dedicated inscriptions, and meaningful presentations, and how these affect book value.

Q: What resources do you use to verify author signatures and inscriptions?

Expected Answer: Should mention reference works, exemplar databases, expert networks, and authentication services used in the field.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between a signed copy and a presentation copy?

Expected Answer: Should explain that a signed copy simply has an author's signature, while a presentation copy includes a personal inscription indicating it was specifically given to someone.

Q: How do you properly handle and store presentation copies?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic preservation techniques, proper storage conditions, and handling procedures for valuable books.