Williamson Auction
Live Auction

Auction 42, Objects Worth the Chill, January 15

Thu, Jan 15, 2026 02:00PM EST
Lot 114

Encyclopaedia Britannica Book of the Year Collection (1939–1944) – Historic World Events Volumes

Estimate: $300 - $900

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$150 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$4,000 $500
$15,000 $1,000
$50,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000

This compelling collection of Encyclopaedia Britannica Book of the Year volumes spans the pivotal years surrounding World War II, offering contemporary accounts of global political, social, and military events as they unfolded. Each hardcover volume documents a single year’s major developments, enriched with period photographs, essays, statistics, and editorial analysis prepared under the direction of the Encyclopaedia Britannica editorial staff.

These books served as authoritative annual records, intended to supplement the main encyclopedia sets, and today they stand as invaluable primary-source historical references. The set is ideal for collectors of historical books, WWII memorabilia, academic libraries, or anyone interested in firsthand documentation of one of the most transformative eras of the 20th century.

Encyclopaedia Britannica, Book of the Year, World War II books, WWII history, historical reference books, vintage encyclopedias, 20th century history, wartime publications, Britannica annual, historical documents, political history, military history, collectible books

Overall good vintage condition. Covers show expected age-related wear including scuffing, edge wear, and minor spine wear. Bindings remain intact. Interior pages show light toning consistent with age but remain clean and legible, with strong photographic and text clarity throughout.

 

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Items must be picked up within 10 business days following the auction. Items not

collected within this timeframe will be placed in storage at a fee of $10.00 per item per day.