I think people who are really into history buy things like that, but for only about 5-6 dollars. I just sold some really specific plat maps for $5.

Your absolute best bet is to do some research, and find out if Any of the businesses in the directory are still in business. If you can find one, and they are interested in owning a piece of their business history, they will be the ones to pay top dollar. Behind that are the collectors who, like TheHotAttic mentioned, will not pay much.

Remember that value is a relative concept, and most of the work in valuating an item is finding out who is going to pay for it, and how much they might be willing to shell out.

~John

I recently sold a 1950’s telephone directory for almost $50. There are historians and also those who live in a specific area or have lived there in the past, as well as, the ones who had ancestors from the area that may be interested. It may take a while to sell until the right person happens upon it, but I would personally put a higher price on it with maybe an OBO. Especially since it is from the 1800’s.

I’ve sold some historical books specific to US towns in the past for varied amuonts…not much. I like JohnCraftTreasures thoughts. No better people to start with than those who are closest to it.

Keep us posted.