Antiquarian & Collectible Book Terms Dictionary - G

A glossary of words with definitions starting with the letter G related to collectible, rare and antiquarian books.

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G.T. or g.t. - Gilt top, gilt applied to the top edge of the text block (see also a.e.g.)

GE or ge - All three edges of a book are cut smooth and gilded, usually with gold paint.

Galley or Galleys - The earliest printing of a work used by the proofreader and author to check for errors. Galleys are often printed on long continuous strips of paper. Sometimes the term is used interchangeably, although incorrectly, with the term advance reading copy. Also known as galley proof. See also proofs.

Gathering - A group of sheets folded together for sewing or gluing into the binding.

Gauffered - An 'engraved' design on the edges of a book.

Gift Binding - A special binding, usually leather, used for gift giving.

Gilt Edges - All three edges of a book are cut smooth and gilded, usually with gold paint.

Glassine - A strong, thin, glazed, semi-transparent paper that used to make protective covers for books because it is, among other durable characteristics, grease and water resistant.

Gnawed - Refers to the condition of a book; chewed-on edges or corners of a book.

Good - Standard abbreviation is "G". Good, except for very rare books, is not good! For most books it is a classification generally meaning the book is not collectible . The difference in pricing between Fine and Good books is almost always substantial. A Fine book selling for $600 may sell for only $50 to $150 in Good condition.

Gouge - Refers to the condition of a book; an unintentional nick or hole in the cover of a book, or on its spine. Or in bookbinding, a single-line finishing tool that is used to create either blind or gold decoration on the covers but not on the spine of a book.

Grn - Green

Grooves - The front and rear indentations (or troughs) between the boards and the spine.

Gutter - The white space formed by the inner margins of two facing pages (near the spine) in a bound book, journal, or newspaper. Also see Tail.

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