The covers are bright and without the bumping and rubbing common to older editions. It likely was once buffed with a tint such as shoe polish. This was nicely done but left the gold leaf on the spine label somewhat faded. The hinges have a light shake but are intact and solid. Some time ago two pictures were cut out, which affected four numbered pages (2 pages both sides for four images). The lost images have been replaced with photocopies. Both repaired pages are pictured. The pair of bookmarks are present and attached.  The textblock is bright and appears to be unmarked. It does have a faint ripple and there is light foxing to the edges.  #299.   Click on "Warship Observer" above for 100+ listings of JFS, including other 1939 editions.