rare book

noun

1. a book that is distinguished by its early printing date, its limited issue, the special character of the edition or binding, or its historical interest.

Word History and Origins

Origin of rare book¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

It’s a rare book that can make “I told you so” surprising, horrifying, and screamingly funny.

From Vox

Priore would hide the items in manila envelopes or larger items but sometimes he simply hand-carried rare books out of the building.

From The Daily Beast

Eventually, they had to lock it up in the stacks, where they had this cage with all the rare books from the Middle Ages.

From Time

This is that rare book which is at once worthwhile and great fun.

From The Daily Beast

Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper is the rare book that I can recommend to everyone.

From The Daily Beast

We have a Rare Book Room where there are collectibles at all price ranges.

From The Daily Beast

A Tramp Abroad' is a rare book, but it cannot rank with its great predecessor in human charm.

From Project Gutenberg

This translation, which has become a rare book, has been here slightly revised, and a few illustrative notes have been added.

From Project Gutenberg

It would be difficult to foretell what would happen to a man who should propose to borrow a rare book.

From Project Gutenberg

The impression was probably large, for it is still by no means a rare book.

From Project Gutenberg

This is Schelhorn's edition of it, which is chiefly coveted, and which is now a rare book in this country.

From Project Gutenberg