William Alford
posting old letters
Wed Feb 21 23:25:29 2001


You didn't mention if these were original or not. I've just conferred with several historians and appraisers about some original CW letters and was told emphatically that the value of original historical photos and letters, documents, etc. is entirely dependent on their uniqueness. ANY copy--even a photocopy that you personally retain, will diminish their value to collectors by as much as 1/2. Of course, there are others of us who believe they should be shared and accessible for study, etc., but just to let you know.