Columbia Viking Desk Encyclopedia 1953, Complete Two Volume Set A-K L-Z

The Columbia-Viking Desk Encyclopedia is a comprehensive two-volume reference set from 1953, designed as a compact desk reference that was standard in home libraries of the 1950s. This complete A-K and L-Z set includes maps, illustrations, and articles on history, science, geography, and more.

A solid choice for the vintage book collector, decorator, or anyone building a curated home library with authentic mid-century reference materials. These hardcover volumes have age and character, with all the patina you'd expect from classic reference books that were actually used and consulted.

Details

Condition Grade: Good

Positives

  • Complete two-volume set, both volumes intact and binding solid
  • Pages are readable throughout with clear text and illustrations
  • Maps and interior illustrations are crisp and well-preserved
  • A functional reference set that shows honest use from the 1950s

Issues / Wear

  • Pencil marks on some pages, consistent with reference book use
  • Age-related yellowing and some page staining throughout
  • Wear visible on spine edges from handling and shelf time
  • No dust jackets (as commonly found with this edition)

See all photos for detail. Sold as pictured.

This October 1953 Viking Press two-volume set runs 1,398 pages with maps and illustrations from A to Z, and it suits a mid-century home library shelf. If it's the right copy for you, it's ready to come home.

  • Near Fine: Close to new. Any flaw is small and named above.
  • Very Good: Light use. Every flaw is named above, and none of them get in the way of reading or display.
  • Good: Complete and usable, with clear signs of use. Every flaw is named above.
  • Fair: Heavy wear or damage, named above. A reading or working copy, not a display piece.

Every item is honestly described and carefully packed. These are vintage pieces, so light age-related wear comes with them. I show and describe what I see so you know what to expect.

If your order arrives damaged or materially different from the listing, contact me within 7 days of delivery and I will make it right.

Returns must be sent back within 30 days of purchase, in the same condition received. I inspect each return against the original photos and description. 

Approved refunds go back to your original payment method, and credit card refunds can take 5 to 10 business days to appear.

Not eligible for a refund: requests made more than 30 days after purchase, items returned damaged, or items returned in different condition than received. 

Postage due on a return is deducted from the refund.

Read the full Return and Refund 

  • Photo-verified condition, no surprises
  • Packed with care. Glass and fragile pieces get extra cushioning
  • Ships in 2 business days
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Questions buyers ask

Every listing spells it out and shows it in photos. Chips, hairlines, crazing, worn plating, old repairs. If I did not mention it, it is not there.

Yes. Every photo is the actual piece, taken by me. When it sells, it is gone.

I note maker, mark, era, and measurements when I can confirm them, and say so plainly when I cannot. Unmarked pieces get dated by what the piece itself shows.

I process order within 2 business days, wrapped and boxed so it arrives the way it left here. Don't forget, free shipping on orders $35 and up.