Engaging 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.

If a historical version is a must have, then consider a search for an incredibly valuable one on eBay. There are authentic 1830's editions offered for sale priced from 69,000 to 98,000 US dollars. This is a steep price for the merely curious. Focused and determined buyers might also consider buying one of the lesser collectibles for just under 500 US dollars.

The newest replica is called the 1830 Heritage Book of Mormon. This gives a nod to the long history and certainly family oriented religion. The purchase price is about thirty four dollars. Bound in an attractive brown leatherette cover, with gold imprinted letters, it is advertised as a way for today's Latter Day Saints to read as the earliest saints would have done.

When the first printing took place, it was in the print shop of E. B. Grandin in Palmyra, New York. There are actually two typefaces used in the original, prompting questions about why it is this way. One particularly curious historian, Royal Skousen, has written an abstract asking why part of this important book is printed in one and part in the other. Skousen was careful to write that the scribes delivered the original manuscript personally. Even with all due diligence, one sixth was set using the first scribed manuscript. Why were the remaining five sixth not?

The Latter Day Saints religion is a relatively modern one, with a very short history. Those practicing the faith can be very focused on the authenticity of church papers and books. John Hajicek, a respected collector, has acquired over 50,000 of these. His personal website describes his passion for this process, and his views that what he does is fiscally and socially responsible. He has developed a fascinating Internet site for people to view his first edition, making it accessible for anyone interested.

Some non-Mormons have made a website available for comparing changes made in this particular volume over time. The idea is that the official Latter Day Saint Church stance is that nothing has changed from the first to the most current editions. Those opposed to this viewpoint have created a so called comparison machine, which allows internet viewers to see pages side by side of various editions. Apparently at least 4,000 changes have occurred over time. Some are concerning doctrinal issues, while others are simple spelling 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.

The First Edition Book of Mormon in its newly released replica form may become a new collector item for those of the faith. History buffs might also consider it a good addition to a library devoted to important movements and groups that settled the American West. Its history and controversies make it quite interesting indeed.




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