Thanks for the nice note! Yes, black and white illustrative plates can also have value. They need to be older lithographs or engravings – not the modern, photo-mechanical processed prints. And they need to be tipped in – or otherwise added separately and not printed as part of the text (they will not have a page number). Usually these illustrations will be on glossy paper. After that, value depends on the artist, subject matter and rarity.

I’ve seen framed black and white plates from Victorian children’s books used as wall decorations for a baby’s room and framed silhouettes used in stairwells. The possibilities are endless.

I’m so glad when bibliophiles say they are also art enthusiasts! 19th century illustrators produced some truly magnificent art.

As a confirmed bibliophile (and art enthusiast), I really enjoyed your article!

Do black-and-white illustrations have any value? I can’t resist pulling illustrations out of falling-apart books, and have quite a few.

In particular, I have some from a very old edition of Mark Twain, several with Black Americana interest.

Should I save them, try to sell them on eBay or chuck them?

Best, Bonnie