This was my first byt from RareCollections. My first impression is that- this service level is what "pro-collector" needs. Super-good service and helpful staff. Personal service and they are doing mor... See more
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Books arrived... I have revised my review in light of the heartfelt response of the seller.... i still feel the boxes used are too thin and flimsy for international use for such important and collecta... See more
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Rare Collections holds stellar stock. It's probably the first book dealer I think of if I have some cash left at the end of the month to spoil myself with a quality book. Immaculately clean books and... See more
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I've ordered several times from this bookseller. At first, I started small and ordered only one book that I needed. After I found them trustworthy, my next order was for 14 more, and then recently a... See more
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Company details
Written by the company
Rare Collections is dedicated to the discovery and careful curation of rare books and collectibles, driven by a deep passion for fine works and a commitment to handling them with integrity. Specializing in rare and collectible items sourced primarily from the USA and Europe, we offer an extensive selection of fine press books, modern first editions, speculative fiction (sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and gothic literature), natural science, prints, and related ephemera. Our catalog includes unique titles, some of which are available exclusively in-store or through direct inquiry. Operating online since May 2021, we’re thrilled to now welcome book lovers to our brick-and-mortar shop in Constantia Old Village, Cape Town, at Shop 5, as of October 2024. Our store is a haven for collectors, featuring fine, rare, and investment-grade books alongside premium collectibles, backed by nearly 20 years of combined experience in the rare book industry. In partnership with The Wine Room, also located within our Constantia space, we offer clients a truly unique experience. The Wine Room showcases a curated selection of wine appliances and accessories—everything from wine fridges and cigar humidors to handblown crystal glassware, decanters, and wine preservation systems. Together, Rare Collections and The Wine Room can assist in designing your ideal library or collectible display, incorporating books, artwork, and memorabilia into your custom-crafted wine cellar or display area. Rare Collections is a proud member in good standing with the Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association, recognized for its high standards of experience, expertise, and integrity in the rare book trade. Additionally, our leadership holds key positions within the Southern African Bookdealers’ Association, reinforcing our commitment to ethical standards in the regional book trade. As members of the Independent Online Booksellers Association, we further pledge to uphold rigorous professional standards, backed by a strong Code of Ethics. Our commitment to authenticity, ethical practices, and exceptional quality sets Rare Collections apart, making us a trusted destination for discerning collectors worldwide. Visit us in Constantia or online (www.rarecollections.co.za), and let us help you find or create a bespoke collection worthy of your passion.
Contact info
Constantia Old Village Shop 4, 7806, Cape Town, South Africa
- +27 21 023 2441
- info@rarecollections.co.za
- rarecollections.co.za
Books arrived.. packaging could be better
Books arrived... I have revised my review in light of the heartfelt response of the seller.... i still feel the boxes used are too thin and flimsy for international use for such important and collectable items that cannot be replaced... It came crushed. Books were loose moving all around inside- I ship books to the UK on a regular basis and use styrofoam peanuts to stabilize the shape and integrity of the box while also protecting the books. I have several more books coming from Rare Collections and I hope they arrive in better stead . Books thankfully were not damaged - for that reason and because I know they really do care, I've revised my review to the positive. While they were certainly knocked about quite a bit,... it all worked out. I await the next package 📦
April 7, 2026
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback and we are deeply sorry to hear about your experience with the packaging on this order.
Every order from Rare Collections is prepared with the utmost care, following a rigorous multi-step packing process specifically designed to protect rare and irreplaceable books:
* Each book is first sealed in a zip-lock bag to guard against moisture, particularly important for international shipments traveling through varying climates.
* It is then carefully wrapped in bubble wrap for shock absorption, followed by a second layer of protective material for additional cushioning.
* We intentionally use minimal tape in our packing process, so that your books are never at risk of damage during unpacking.
* Every order is secured in a Colompac box. These are premium, high-durability shipping boxes imported from Europe, selected specifically for their strength and reliability during long distance transit.
* Finally every package is covered in large red "FRAGILE" stickers to alert handlers to handle them with care.
It is distressing that your box arrived crushed, couriers can be very rough with packages. Since the books were undamaged hopefully shows that our process was at least effective in this case. If the box gets crushed it will also crush the packaging material internally which in turn could cause the books to be loose, which sounds like that was the case here.
We are very receptive to feedback and contact, if there are any issues with your other order please let us know.
GREETINGS FROM HELSINKI, Finland
This was my first byt from RareCollections. My first impression is that- this service level is what "pro-collector" needs. Super-good service and helpful staff. Personal service and they are doing more than "just selling item". I got books history-owner's history etc. Very much appreciated. I was positively surprised delivery speed - Finland is very far away from your shop. All communication was just perfect. I'm very happy that I used your shop. Very recommended - just plus+++++++++. Collector's pearl.: Books arrived good shape, well packed and archive grade mylar jacket installed. TEN PLUS!
April 7, 2026
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for such a wonderful review! We are genuinely happy to hear that your first experience with Rare Collections met your expectations as a serious collector.
We look forward to many more transactions with you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I've purchased several collectable books from Rare Collections. Brenda is an absolute superstar. Each book carefully packaged, accompanied by a letter of provenance and swift courier arrangements. I will continue supporting this bookstore. Highly recommended.
March 26, 2026
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your kind words. We will be sure to pass them on to Brenda too, who will be very pleased to hear this.
We look forward to helping you grow your collection further!
I found Christo to be extremely knowledgeable.
I found Christo to be extremely knowledgeable and an expert in his filed of dealing in are books.
March 26, 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. Christo's depth of knowledge and passion for rare books is the cornerstone of Rare Collections and it is great to hear that his experience benefited you.
We hope to assist you again soon.
Shipping and tracking were A-1
Shipping and tracking were A-1. All in all a pleasant transaction.
December 8, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your lovely review. We appreciate the support.
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you Carme!
Book properly described.Fast delivery.
November 10, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for the 5 star review!
Impeccable service stunning product.
I have purchased over 10 books from Rare Collections and again my purchase exceeded expectations. I say that by way of perception that generally the books are better in real life than on the display photo. Proffesionally packaged. Further, customer service is brilliant. I said I would return and I have and I will return again. Thank you Rare Collections.
November 4, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your continued support and for sharing such kind feedback. We’re so glad to hear that your books have exceeded expectations and that our packaging and service meet the standard you’ve come to expect. It’s always a pleasure assisting a fellow book lover.
Reliable
Reliable, friendly service. Great seller. You can tell they really love books and take pride in their business. Highly recommend
October 22, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your review and recommendation!
It was a smooth experience.
It was a smooth experience.
I will use your shop again.
Thanks
October 13, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your kind feedback. We’re glad to hear your experience was smooth and look forward to assisting you again in the future.
This is truly one of the best…
This is truly one of the best bookstores I have ever dealt with. Professional, helpful, and knowledgeable.
September 29, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you very much for your thoughtful words. We truly appreciate your support and are pleased to know you had such a positive experience with us.
Great Experience
Fast, efficient, and pleasant. Everything about my experience was fantastic. The book arrived as described and when the shipping company made a mess of things, Brenda and her team were quick to respond and to help resolve the problem. I have no hesitation recommending her business.
September 25, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
We appreciate your feedback and are delighted to hear you had a great experience. Thank you for the kindness, support and recommendation!
Excellent product and service
A well-preserved volume, packed and shipped efficiently and safely, in a very reasonable amount of time.
September 9, 2025
As advertised
August 22, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your review. Accuracy in description and presentation is something we take great pride in and we are pleased to know that your experience reflected that.
Friendly efficiency and speed: personal service
In the first case, being able to locate a rare book; and next, the friendly speed and efficiency with which my order was handled: a book hard to find (such that I thought it had never been published) dispatched in excellent condition from South Africa to Ireland in less than a week from start to finish. I definitely will return to Rare Collections. Excellent personal service.
July 31, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your thoughtful review. We are especially glad to have helped you locate a title that had proven so elusive and to ensure it reached you safely and quickly.
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for sharing your experience. We are pleased that the packaging and descriptions met your expectations, as both are central to how we handle rare books.
I had great communication with the…
I had great communication with the bookstore, the items were dispatched quickly, and were wrapped carefully and in perfect condition when I received them.
August 4, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
We are grateful for your kind words. Clear communication and careful handling are at the heart of our service, and we are glad that was reflected in your order.
I really appreciated the great book and service
I really appreciated the great communication, the rapid delivery, and the provision of the provenance of the book that I ordered. Everything about the order was wonderful. Sigh - I just wish they had more of the signed books by Forsyth. But great bookseller in every way.
May 12, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for this generous feedback. We are so pleased that you valued the provenance provided and that the entire process was a positive one. We will certainly keep an eye out for additional signed Forsyth titles, and hope we can assist you again in the future.
Rare Collections: Dark Fiction Specialists
Rare Collections holds stellar stock. It's probably the first book dealer I think of if I have some cash left at the end of the month to spoil myself with a quality book. Immaculately clean books and just the right genre for my cranial palette. Rating: ***** (Ras Steyn: 19 May 2025) - A feast for dark speculative fiction aficionados.
May 12, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your generous review and kind words. We’re happy to know that Rare Collections is your go-to when it’s time to treat yourself and even more so that our selection speaks to your taste. Your continued support is truly appreciated!
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for the review and support!
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