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Atlas of Finland

Large brown cloth-bound Atlas of Finland, published by The Geographical Society of Finland, featuring a gilt Finnish crest.

Estimated value

$150 - $600

Rarity

Uncommon(5/10)

Category

Books

Brand

The Geographical Society of Finland

Era

Early to Mid-20th Century (likely 1920s-1950s)

Origin

🇫🇮 Finland

Authenticity

Very High(85%)
52

BETWEEN THE COVERS: ATLAS OF FINLAND

This appears to be a large-format atlas titled "Atlas of Finland," published by "The Geographical Society of Finland." The cover is a sturdy, bound board, suggesting it is a significant cartographic work. Atlases of this period are often compiled with meticulous detail, providing a snapshot of geographical, demographic, and economic conditions of a nation at a specific time.

LITERARY CROSSROADS

Where This Object Echoes

International cartography19th-20th Century

The tradition of creating comprehensive national atlases flourished globally in the 19th and 20th centuries, often serving as benchmarks for geographical research and national identity.

Scandinavian design principles20th Century

While not directly an art piece, the clear, functional presentation often found in Northern European academic publications can echo a broader regional aesthetic of practicality and clarity.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

  • •Academic study and research, particularly in geography, geopolitics, and environmental sciences.
  • •The ritualized act of marking national and territorial boundaries, and assessing natural resources.

Meaning Through Time

Early 20th Century

A symbol of national identity and scientific advancement for a newly independent nation like Finland.

Late 20th Century to Present

An important historical document, reflecting past geographical knowledge and statistical data, increasingly valued for its historical rather than practical cartographic content.

BETWEEN THE COVERS

The concept of a national atlas, particularly in the early to mid-20th century, was an important undertaking for newly independent or emerging nations to define and document their territory and resources. Finland, having gained independence in 1917, produced several significant national atlases, ...
The concept of a national atlas, particularly in the early to mid-20th century, was an important undertaking for newly independent or emerging nations to define and document their territory and resources. Finland, having gained independence in 1917, produced several significant national atlases, which served not only scientific and educational purposes but also as statements of national identity and sovereignty. The publishing entity, The Geographical Society of Finland, points to a scholarly and authoritative production.

BETWEEN THE LINES

1

Finland has a rich history of cartography, with its 'Atlas of Finland' series being one of the world's oldest and most respected national atlases, first published in parts starting in 1899.

2

Early national atlases were often monumental works, showcasing not only geographical features but also extensive statistical data on population, economy, and natural resources, reflecting a nation's self-perception and development.

HOW SCARCE IS IT?

Uncommon70-80%
CommonLegendary

Genuine antiques with fewer examples on the market. Named makers, documented provenance, or early production examples.

Typical Characteristics

  • Limited production
  • Named makers
  • Growing collector demand

Confidence Factors

  • Clearly identifiable title and publisher on the cover.
  • Form and material are consistent with atlases of the stated era.
  • No common history of forgery for this type of academic atlas.
How does authenticity detection work?

BIBLIOPHILE'S ASSESSMENT

Rare Book Dealer & Bibliographer

Bibliographer

Confidence is good as the cover clearly identifies the object as an 'Atlas of Finland' by a specific geographical society. However, without access to internal pages, specific edition, printing, and exact date remain unconfirmed, which influences the precision of the valuation.

KEY EVIDENCE

  • 1Folio-sized, cloth-bound volume.
  • 2Cover text clearly states 'Atlas of Finland'.
  • 3Publisher identified as 'The Geographical Society of Finland'.
  • 4Presence of the Finnish lion rampant crest suggests an official or national publication.

UNCERTAINTIES

  • •Lack of visible publication date or edition information without opening the book.
  • •No visible spine information, which could contain further bibliographic details.
  • •The condition of the cover suggests potential internal damage not visible here.

WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY

  • →Photograph the title page, copyright page, and verso of the title page to ascertain author, full title, publisher, place, year, and edition/printing points.
  • →Capture images of the spine, both front and back boards, and page edges to assess overall binding integrity and condition more thoroughly.
  • →Check for any internal inscriptions, bookplates, or stamps that might indicate provenance.
  • →Note the paper quality and look for any signs of foxing, toning, or damp stain on the interior pages.

CONDITION & GRADE

Condition

The binding shows considerable wear, with scuffing, staining, and some loss of surface material, particularly visible on the front cover. The edges and corners appear bumped and abraded. Without viewing the spine or interior, one can only surmise that the internal pages may suffer from foxing or some degree of damp staining, common in atlases of this age with compromised external condition.

Surface

The surface is a brown cloth binding over boards, exhibiting a textured weave. The title and publisher's information, along with the Finnish lion rampant crest, appear to be debossed or gilt-stamped, although the gilding now shows significant wear. There are visible scuffs, smudges, and what appears to be plaster or paint residue, indicating extensive use and possibly storage in a less-than-ideal environment.

Weight & feel

Given its size and substantial binding typical for a folio atlas, this would be a heavy and imposing volume, likely weighing several kilograms.

BOOK MARKET VALUATION

$150 - $600

Updated: Feb 27, 2026

  • Market comparables from auctions & retail
  • Condition, completeness & craftsmanship
  • Current collector demand & trends
  • Low = quick sale, high = patient seller

For informational purposes only, not a formal appraisal.

FROM THE CABINET OF

RA

ralphandhelen
Wonderseeker•5 items

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