About Us

Established in 1982, James S. Jaffe Rare Books is a member of the Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America, and abides by its ethical guidelines. We guarantee the authenticity of all books and autographs we offer for sale. Member Antiquarian Booksellers' Association of America / International League of Antiquarian Booksellers

SPECIALTIES: James S. Jaffe Rare Books specializes in rare books, manuscripts and letters, literary first editions, association copies, poetry, private press books, livres d'artistes, illustrated books, literary art and artifacts. We welcome offers of rare books and manuscripts, original photographs and prints, and art and artifacts of literary and historical interest.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES: During the last forty years we have represented some of the most important contemporary American poets in the sale of their literary archives, including John Ashbery, Cornelius Eady, Toi Derricotte, Jack Gilbert, Linda Gregg, Maxine Kumin, Philip Levine, Nathaniel Mackey, Gerald Stern, and C. K. Williams, among others.

We are pleased to assist authors, artists, collectors and librarians in formulating and fulfilling their particular goals. We are always happy to discuss the pleasures and perils of book collecting with prospective clients.

STANDARDS: We believe we can best serve our customers by paying scrupulous attention to bibliographical correctness and condition: the first edition in the best condition is our ideal; deviations from this standard are carefully recorded. All books are first editions in their original bindings unless otherwise indicated; bibliographical references, including states and issue points, are cited whenever relevant; defects, including restoration, ownership signatures and bookplates, are noted. Our evaluations are based on current market conditions and more than thirty years of experience in the rare book trade.

HOURS:By appointment only.