Miniature "The Book of Common Prayer" Silver Plated Cover and Black Leather Book

This miniature volume is a combined edition of The Book of Common Prayer (the official liturgical text of the Church of England) and Hymns Ancient & Modern (a popular Anglican hymnal first published in 1861). Published the presence of “Hymns A&M” alongside the Book of Common Prayer and the Oxford imprint points to a late Victorian or Edwardian era publication—most likely in the late 19th or very early 20th century. These diminutive “pocket” or “travel” prayer books were commonly produced as personal devotional items. The silver cover, with hallmarks, suggests that it was intended as a special or commemorative edition, possibly for a christening, confirmation, or other religious milestone.

The Book of Common Prayer itself dates back to the 16th century and was compiled primarily by Thomas Cranmer. Its purpose was to provide a uniform liturgy for the Church of England—containing services for Holy Communion, Morning and Evening Prayer, the Psalms, and various rites such as baptism and marriage. Hymns Ancient & Modern was first introduced in 1861 to unify and standardize hymn singing within Anglican worship, gathering both older (“ancient”) and more recent (“modern”) hymns into one authorized collection. By pairing these two works, this volume offers a convenient, all-in-one resource for both the liturgical services and the hymnody commonly used in Anglican churches. Historically, this reflects a period in which personal devotional practice and portable religious texts were increasingly popular, especially as printing methods advanced and fine bindings became more accessible to the middle class.

One of the most striking features of this little book is the decorative binding. Its front cover is crafted from silver, with a raised design (possibly cherubic faces or other religious imagery), giving it both a luxurious and deeply personal character. The back cover and spine are bound in black leather, textured or crosshatched, and lettered in gilt with “Common Prayer” and “Hymns A & M,” along with “Oxford” near the base. Miniature prayer books with silver or metal covers were often treasured as heirlooms or special gifts. Their small size allowed them to be easily carried in a pocket or purse, underscoring the 19th- and early 20th-century emphasis on personal devotion and the ever-present nature of faith.

Condition: 

The silver front cover shows moderate tarnishing, characteristic of silver that has not been regularly polished, and it may have a few small dents or surface scratches from handling. The leather spine and back cover are scuffed and rubbed at the edges, likely from being carried or used over many years. The gilt lettering on the spine remains partially visible but may be dulled or chipped. Internally, the pages appear toned from age, with some possible foxing or light staining in places. Despite these signs of wear, the binding seems to be holding together, suggesting that while the volume has seen regular use, it has also been cared for well enough to remain intact.