Collecting Antique Maps - Recto - Verso - Stub!

Most antique maps were originally bound into books and atlases. A centerfold down the middle made this possible and the map was folded ready to be inserted and bound. So when you look at a map as in the example here the front of the map is often referred to as the 'recto' from the latin (Leaf), the front side of a leaf. The reverse or back of the page is known as the 'verso'. Thats it in map trade talk 'recto' the front side of the sheet with the image on it and the back is called the 'verso'.  Often the verso will have text printed on it but this is not always the case.​​

All the points discussed in the previous several posts can help you evaluate the antique map you're considering.  As mentioned you want to look at whats on the paper, but even more importantly the paper itself.   What does the paper itself tell you?  Is it laid paper or wove?  This will help clarify does the paper fit with the claimed age of the map. Download the free pdf Kick Start Guide COLLECTING ANTIQUE MAPS - More Tips for the Novice. This is for those who are new to collecting or even new to the idea of collecting maps. This will help you get to grips with what you really need to know first.