Binding: Leather
Special Attributes: Miniature
Publisher: Antiquity
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Holy Bible 1872 Miniature Leather Bound British & Foreign Bible Society Antique
⸻
This item is the 1872 edition of the Holy Bible, published by the British and Foreign Bible Society in London. This is a miniaturesized edition containing the Old and New Testaments, printed by George E. Eyre and William Spottiswoode, official printers to Queen Victoria.
The Bible is bound in black textured leather with embossed borders and gilt lettering on the spine. It includes a handwritten dedication dated 25th June 1873 to a “Margaret Handley,” adding to its historical charm. Also noted is a name and address — “James Borrowdale, GatesheadonTyne” — handwritten inside.
This is an Early 24mo size (approximately 4.25 inches / 11 cm in height, as seen in photos), making it a highly portable and collectible antique Bible edition.
Product Details:
• Title: Holy Bible – Old and New Testaments
• Publication Year: 1872
• Publisher: British and Foreign Bible Society, London
• Printers: George E. Eyre & William Spottiswoode
• Size: Early 24mo (approx. 11 cm / 4.25 inches tall)
• Language: English
• Binding: Full black leather with gilt spine title
• Provenance: Handwritten gift inscription (1873), ownership marks
Condition:
Acceptable vintage condition:
• Cover: Noticeable edge and corner wear with rubbing and scuffing throughout the leather. Some surface indentations present. Gilt lettering on spine is faded but legible.
• Binding: Inner hinges are worn, showing some separation and fragility.
• Pages: Aged and foxed, with visible toning and spots. No missing pages seen. Inscription pages are heavily worn and marked.
• Spine: Structurally intact but shows signs of heavy wear with leather chipping at top and bottom edges.
Despite these signs of age, the Bible remains a meaningful historical object, rich with personal and cultural significance.
About the British and Foreign Bible Society:
Founded in 1804 in London, the British and Foreign Bible Society aimed to make the Bible available across the world in multiple languages. During the 19th century, they issued Bibles in various compact formats to encourage individual study and portability, often gifting them to soldiers, missionaries, and families. Their publications were printed with the authority of the Crown and remain valuable historical pieces representing the spread of Christianity during the Victorian era.
Why Choose This Item?
• A deeply personal historical piece with provenance.
• Compact and elegant 19thcentury binding ideal for collectors.
• A meaningful gift for those interested in Christian heritage, genealogy, or antique books.
• Adds character to any vintage bookshelf, library, or devotional display.
This is a genuine antique item over 150 years old, showing honest signs of use and ownership, making it a unique and storied collectible.
