Mining dictionary sells for thousands at auction

The dictionary of mining terms was written by James Mander

A 19th Century dictionary of mining terms used in Derbyshire has fetched £17,000 at an auction.

Hansons Auctioneers said the dictionary - which had been expected to make between £300 to £600 – was sold to an archivist who specialises in regional dialects for almost £22,000 including auction fees on Tuesday.

It was written by James Mander, who titled the work A Mineral Dictionary of Words, Or Terms Used By The Miners In Derbyshire 1821.

Jim Spencer, from Rare Book Auctions who sold the dictionary, said he hoped a few collectors would "lock horns" but the amount the dictionary sold for was "amazing".

The mainly handwritten manuscript includes definitions such as "grace o' god" meaning "the lucky finding of ore by accident", while a "gavelor" is "an officer among miners", Hansons said.

Auctioneers said 300 copies of the dictionary were produced

Mr Spencer added: "The dictionary is a historical document and gives us a huge insight into both practices and social context of mining from that time.

"For anyone interested in mining history, etymology, or the dialects of the county, it is a wonderful resource."

Hansons said records showed 300 copies of the book were printed varying in price from seven to 12 shillings which, after printing costs of £48 were deducted, left the author with a profit of £70.