The box shows some wear but the original lettering on the inside of the lid is still readable. This is a very valuable complete collection in incredible condition for its age. Thirteen volume set of Shakespeare is in the original green cloth box, cloth hinge is holding together well.
One side is loose on a front corner, all four sides of box are intact and holding together but does show some wear inside, wear to writing on inside of cover as can be seen in the photos. The books are in great shape as they were protected by the box, so it did its job well. The books measure about 4"x7", the box measures about 7"x7"x4. The publication date is only found in the final book, 1888. Box lid calls the set "The Ideal Handy Volume Shakespeare, " the books are entitled The Works of William Shakespeare. " The books and box say this is a twelve volume set, the additional volume is entitled "Glossary, Concordance, Index to characters, etc. It is bound in the same fashion and matches the set. Get it now as I have not seen this in green before.