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Antique 1862 Micro-Miniature Gilt-Edge Children’s Book – \"Our Pic-Nic in the Woods\" by Aunt Laura – Civil War Era – Embossed CoverPrice: $325Item Specifics:
• Year: 1862
• Publisher: Breed, Butler & Co. (Buffalo)
• Format: Micro-Miniature Book
• Binding: Embossed decorative boards with full gilt page edges
• Category: 19th-Century Americana / Civil War Era / Antique Children’s Literature / Miniature Books
• Condition: Very Good AntiqueDescription:
Offered here is a beautifully preserved 1862 micro-miniature edition of \"Our Pic-Nic in the Old Woods\" by Aunt Laura, published by Breed, Butler & Co. during the height of the American Civil War. This exceptionally small children’s book features its original ornate embossed cover and brilliant gilt page edges—an extremely scarce combination among surviving mid‑19th‑century juvenile miniatures.This edition is highly desirable to collectors of early American children’s books, Civil War-era publications, miniature volumes, and decorative gilt-edge bindings. Micro-miniature books from this period rarely survive in collectible condition.Physical Details:
• Micro-miniature size: approx. 2\" tall x 1.5\" wide
• Original brown embossed boards with floral and geometric motifs
• All three page edges retain their original gold gilding
• Clean, legible text with minimal foxing for its age
• Complete pagination; tight binding with no loose signatures
• Classic 19th-century typography and decorative chapter headersCondition (Please Review Photos):
• Exterior shows light rubbing and edge wear consistent with 160+ years of age
• Embossing remains crisp and visually striking
• Interior pages are clean, tight, and free of any tears
• Mild age toning present, appropriate for the period
• Gilt edges remain bright and reflective
• This is an authentic 1862 antique—not a reproductionHistorical Significance:
Published in 1862, this micro-miniature book reflects the storytelling style and moral tone of Civil War-era children’s literature. Breed, Butler & Co. was a small regional publisher with limited surviving output, making this edition particularly scarce.Shipping:
Ships securely with protective packaging and tracking. Signature confirmation available upon request.Keywords: miniature book, micro-miniature, Civil War book, gilt edge book, antique children’s literature, Breed Butler & Co., 19th century Americana