Rare Book Chat

By: Jeremy O'Connor and Michael DiRuggiero
  • Summary

  • Dive deep into the fascinating world of rare books with Rare Book Chat. Hosted by Michael DiRuggiero and Jeremy O'Connor, the co-founders of The Manhattan Rare Book Company, this twice-weekly podcast explores the unique and often valuable items that fill the world of rare books, manuscripts, letters, photographs, archives, and more. From historical documents to literary first editions, we'll discuss the stories behind these one-of-a-kind treasures. Join us as we explore the intricacies of the rare book trade and discover the hidden gems that await.
    2024
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Episodes
  • Episode 6: The World Series Episode: A Very Rare Book that Revolutionized Baseball... and more!
    Oct 25 2024

    In this episode of Rare Book Chat, we're diving into the revolutionary impact of Bill James's work on baseball and far beyond. Known to us (with affection) as the "Pork and Beans Man," Bill James transformed the way we think about baseball analytics, introducing statistical evaluation in sports with his groundbreaking work, "The Baseball Abstract." We discuss a very rare 1978 printing of James’ Baseball Almanac (offered by Type Punch Matrix) and how James, as an outsider, reshaped the understanding of player value and the lasting influence his ideas had on the concept of "Moneyball."


    As we celebrate the start of the World Series, we also meander through the fascinating world of rare baseball memorabilia. We discuss everything from a jaw-dropping $24 million Babe Ruth jersey to a valuable questionnaire filled out by Jackie Robinson. Throughout our conversation, we explore the intersection of sports, literature, and how printed documents can help us understand cultural movements.

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    25 mins
  • Episode 5: Constitution Recap... a Bargain at $11M?
    Oct 22 2024

    In this episode we discuss the sale price of a the extremely rare ratification printing of the US Constitution sold at Brunk Auctions last week. Was $11M high or low? Listen to the episode to find out why it was probably a bargain.

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    30 mins
  • Episode 4: The Most Important Printed Document in American History?
    Oct 15 2024

    In this episode of Rare Book Chat, hosts Michael DiRuggiero and Jeremy O'Connor discuss a rare ratification copy of the US Constitution with Seth Kaller, the pre-eminent dealer of rare and important American historical documents. The conversation explores the document's historical significance, the complexities of its journey from creation to ratification, the role of compromise in the Constitution's formation, the importance of Charles Thompson's signature, and the implications of the auction for collectors and historians alike.

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    47 mins

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