It was probably regarded as an old, dusty book about even older and dustier fly thingie that no-one wants. How wrong they where
But for the right kind of geek it is priceless
I got a book about markings and camouflage worn by Dutch aircraft for about 50 euros but, some people will pay hundreds of euros for it. About 1500 where printed and all copies are sold. There will never be a re-print. Paper can surpass its value by far, compared to just the weight.