Blumenthal (#8 Style) Binding Color Combinations

The Blumenthal bindings were in use between 1939 and 1963.  They were the most colorful bindings produced by the Modern Library, consisting of two colors: one main cover color and one trim color. Top stain often matched the trim color. They look nice displayed together on a shelf, and some ML collectors specifically target titles in this binding style.  See "What is a Blumenthal Binding?" for more information on this binding style.

The early years of the Blumenthal binding era, from 1939 to around 1947, produced quite a few color combinations with many trim colors being used.  Perhaps due to cost reductions in the later years, color combinations were greatly reduced, and black became the predominate trim color.

The table below shows all known Blumenthal binding color combinations, coupled with the first and last appearances of each combination.  Please send any additional color combinations not reported to the editor.  If you’re reporting an earlier or later color combination date verify the year by using the "Includes this ..." and "... but not this" columns in the MODERN LIBRARY DATING KEY, 1925-1970. Not all titles have a book list in the back but you may be able to date a copy if it’s a first printing—check the copyright page for a stated first edition date (with the obvious exceptions of “perpetual first” slugs such as Bemelmans and Thurber).