Fascinating Trivia Concerning The First Edition Book Of Mormon

By Lela Perkins


Antique collectibles such as the First Edition Book of Mormon are probably only affordable for a few specialty collectors. But, a replica of it is available. Devotees of Latter Day Saints history would highly value the chance to see an actual 1830 volume. For students, the replicas offer in depth study opportunities at a reasonable price.

There are a few authentic antique books available for sale on the Internet. These range in price from 69,000 to 98,000 in US currency. There are several very focused collectors who own the volumes and their importance to the Mormon faith is undeniable. Lesser valued ones are also offered for around 500 dollars.

The latest replica is the 1830 Heritage Book of Mormon. For about thirty dollars, families can own this handsome brown colored book. It is bound in leatherette with gold embossed letters. It is offered as an opportunity for modern Latter Day Saints to study in a manner similar to original Mormons.

For history buffs, some interesting questions have cropped up concerning the typeface and printing methods used in the actual original volume. The manuscript was first taken by its scribes to E. B. Grandin in Palmyra, New York for printing. But, there are two typefaces present in this volume, leaving historians, such as Royal Skousen, asking why this was so. The abstract written concerning this peculiarity states that one sixth of the book was set using the scribed manuscript.

Due to its relative newness, the Mormon religion often seeks to keep accurate historical writings. Some Latter Day Saints are passionate about authenticating their family histories and enjoy the process of collecting and authenticating rare books that have sprung from the faith. John Hajicek, a noted historian and passionate collector has spent at least a one third of his life doing so. His accumulated library includes over 50,000 books and items related to Mormonism. He has also created a website for viewing his first edition antique Book of Mormon online.

Some non-believers are concerned with following the official position of the Latter Day Saint Church over time. The organization has apparently stated that there have been no changes from the original edition to current ones. Those in opposition to the church have developed what they call a comparison machine. This allows Internet visitors to view pages of the various books side by side. When this was first done, it is said that over 4,000 changes were found. Some were passages relating to church doctrine and others were minor spelling mistakes or grammar corrections.

There is some speculation concerning why the most recent edition has been created for sale. The advertising presents the idea that the faithful will appreciate returning to the original source of the religion. As the book is widely available, many who are interested may certainly look over what it has to say.

It could be that the replica First Edition Book of Mormon is destined to be collected by many new readers. The church has enjoyed a reputation for encouraging historical study and family genealogy. History teachers often include its westward movement as integral to settling portions of the American West. Controversy and curiosity are certain to continue when it concerns this fascinating religion.




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