John Speed's world map will lead Americana auction at Swann

A world map by John Speed, published in 1626, is to lead an auction of fine Americana at Swann Auction Galleries in New York.

It is expected to make $10,000-15,000 on March 27.

John Speed world map
John Speed produced the world map in 1626

Titled: "A New and Accurat Map of the World Drawne according to ye truest Descriptions latest Discoveries & best Observations yt have been made by English or Strangers", the map is among the earliest known examples to depict California as an island.

It features elaborate engravings and exceptional detailing, with images of the various elements and portraits of early explorers - including Francis Drake and Ferdinand Magellan.

It was not used extensively outside the UK, making it considerably rarer than other European maps of the era.

An album containing a range of photographs of the author Zane Grey is valued at $10,000-15,000.

Grey (1872-1939) wrote enormously popular adventure stories set on the American frontier with titles like "Roping Lions in the Grand Canyon" and "Twin Sombreros".

The photographs were taken throughout the American southwest and aboard the writer's yacht. The lot previously sold at Bonhams for $8,540 in 2011.

Rare and Unusual Fly Tying Materials: A Natural History. Volume I - Birds, a lavish book from 1994 on creating flies for angling, is valued at $6,000-9,000.

Why not take a look at our rare books and manuscripts for sale?

Follow the link to sign up to our free newsletter to keep abreast of the latest on collecting.  

Featured products

Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Sale price£399
In stock
Fidel Castro signed certificateFidel Castro Signed Certificate
Fidel Castro signed certificate
Sale price£2,995
In stock
King Henry VIII Autographed DocumentKing Henry VIII Autographed Document
King Henry VIII Autographed Document
Sale price£55,000
In stock