Oxford Bibles, circa 1955
In December 1955, Life magazine devoted a special issue to Christianity. It included an advertisement for Oxford Bibles, which I've reproduced below. The headline reads: "Since 1675 ... in Bibles one name has signified the finest craftsmanship, the highest quality, the extra care that distinguishes the best. Oxford. America's Gift Bible. Since 1675."Three editions of the KJV are highlighted. First, there's the 01467x Morocco, Ultrathin Oxford India Paper, 4 1/4 x 6 3/8 x 7/8", with a choice of five colors, retailing for $13.00. Black is shown. The more upscale 01530x hardback is bound in Polished Morocco with Ultrathin Oxford India Paper and measures 5 x 7 1/4 x 3/4", available in three colors for $16.50. The edition illustrated in the ad seems to be brown with gilt details. Finally, there's the 01558x Persian with Ultrathin Oxford India Paper, measuring 5 1/2 x 7 1/4 x 1 1/8", with two ribbons. This one is also available in three colors -- the one in the ad seems to be red. At the bottom of the ad: "More than 200 styles priced from $2.15 to $265.00." Intrigued? I am.