Vintage Natural History Reference (First Printing) — The Audubon Nature Encyclopedia 12-Volume Set (1964–1965) — National Audubon Society | Illustrated Wildlife + Ecology, Natural History / Wildlife Reference

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A shelf-worthy vintage Natural History / Wildlife Reference set that reads like a walk through the outdoor world—land, air, and sea—page by page. The Audubon Nature Encyclopedia is built for curious readers: clear entries, strong photographs, and classic mid-century illustration that makes you want to keep turning pages.

You’ll find wildlife, ecology, plants, habitats, and natural science topics presented in an approachable encyclopedia format—with picture plates sprinkled throughout. Photo-verified and ready for a new nature-loving home.

Quick Specs

  • Item Type: 12-volume hardcover encyclopedia/reference set
  • Size: 9.5 × 6.5 × 1 in (each volume)
  • Material: Hardcover cloth boards (warm ivory) with Audubon medallion
  • Color: Ivory/cream boards; tan/golden spine coverings with black lettering
  • Origin or Maker: Curtis Books (Curtis Publishing Company), Philadelphia–New York (Sponsored by National Audubon Society)
  • Year or Era: Copyright 1964, 1965
  • GENRE: Natural History / Wildlife Reference
  • Language / Pages: English / Page count Not provided
  • Identifiers: Library of Congress Card Catalog No. 64-8877

Edition & Features

  • Edition/Printing: First Printing (photo-verified)
  • Dust Jacket: Not provided
  • Illustrations/Maps/Plates: Photographs + illustrations + maps (photo-verified; includes classic Audubon-style bird plates shown)
  • Extras: 12-volume set (spines numbered 1–12)

Condition Grade: Fair

Notes: This is a loved, working reference set with heavy exterior wear. Many volumes show torn/split spine coverings, chipping at edges, rubbing, and visible age toning; one volume shows a noticeable tear along the spine area (see photos). Boards show surface soiling/spotting in places. Interiors appear clean and readable on the pages shown, with strong image reproduction.

See all photos for detail—sold as pictured.

Condition Grade Key
Near Fine: minimal wear; tight; clean.
Very Good: light wear; clean text; minor flaws.
Good: noticeable wear; sound reading copy; some marks.
Fair: heavy wear; complete but worn; priced accordingly.

About the Author: John K. Terres (Editor-in-Chief)

John K. Terres served as editor-in-chief for this National Audubon Society-sponsored reference work, shaping it into an accessible, image-rich guide to the natural world. A classic mid-century nature shelf staple—meant to be used, not just admired.

Good to Know Before You Buy

Yes. Every photo on this page is the actual item you will receive. Not a stock photo, not a similar copy. What you see is what ships.

Honestly. This is vintage, so expect some age. When I find wear, writing, stains, loose pages, chips, or missing pieces, I note them and show them in the photos. Some marks add character. Some are just flaws. I tell you which is which so you can decide if this is the right one for you.

With care. Old books and fragile pieces are wrapped and boxed so they arrive the way they left me. Careful packing is one of the things buyers mention most in their reviews. Orders of $35 or more ship free.

Probably not. Everything here is one of a kind, and I rarely find the same item twice. Once it sells, it is gone. Vintage does not restock neatly.