There is a unique joy in opening an old theological book, feeling the worn binding in your hands, and realising that the truths inside have nourished generations before us. For many of us, that joy has often come through the works of the Banner of Truth Trust, one of the most influential Reformed publishers of the last century. Yet while many Banner titles are still readily available, some of the richest treasures are those that have gone out of print. At James A. Dickson Books, we have made it our mission to help readers rediscover these works by offering second-hand and out-of-print Banner of Truth books.
Since its founding in Edinburgh in 1957, the Banner of Truth Trust has been known for reviving Puritan and Reformed classics, printing affordable editions of John Owen, Jonathan Edwards, Thomas Watson, and many others. Generations of readers have deepened their devotion through The Valley of Vision or through the much-loved Puritan Paperbacks series. But alongside these well-known volumes lies a whole world of out of print Banner of Truth books, titles that shaped the faith of pastors and believers, yet today can only be found through second-hand sellers.
This is where we come in. At James A. Dickson Books, we have spent years specialising in Reformed and Puritan works, carefully sourcing and offering both new and second-hand Banner of Truth editions. Our shelves often carry rare and antiquarian theological books and Bibles, but also many older Banner of Truth works which have long disappeared from their catalogue. We provide worldwide shipping and regular catalogues, and we make sure those on our mailing list not only hear about new arrivals but also receive a discount on used books from time to time.
Among the out-of-print Banner of Truth treasures we handle regularly are James Durham’s Commentary on the Song of Solomon, praised by Charles Spurgeon for its Christ-centred depth and beauty. Another gem is Alexander Nisbet’s Commentary on 1 and 2 Peter, a work that requires effort but rewards the reader with profound insight. We have also been privileged to offer David Dickson’s commentaries on Matthew, and the Book of Psalms, the former Spurgeon once described as “a perfect gem.” These works are more than historical artefacts. They are theological treasures, written with clarity, warmth, and spiritual power. Cotton Mather’s Magnalia Christi Americana and Robert L. Dabney’s Theological Discussions are amongst some of the more sought after items by US authors.
You may wonder why second-hand Banner of Truth books matter so much when many of the Puritan works are available in modern reprints. The truth is that older editions carry with them a unique weight. Out-of-print titles often become scarce and collectible, and the craftsmanship of earlier Banner printings, strong bindings, careful typography, and durable paper means they still stand the test of time. In some cases, they also connect us with those who read them before, through handwritten notes in the margins or the marks of use in a pastor’s study. In other words, these books are not only valuable for their content but also for their history.
For those searching for used or out-of-print Banner of Truth books, patience and attentiveness are key. We recommend checking our “Used” and “Puritans” sections regularly, subscribing to our mailing list to hear about new arrivals, and contacting us directly if you are looking for a specific title. Because many of these works appear unpredictably and sell quickly, having your wishlist ready ensures you can act fast when that long-sought-after book finally surfaces.
At James A. Dickson Books, we count it a privilege to help readers discover these treasures. Whether you are a pastor building a study, a collector seeking rare Puritan theology, or simply a Christian who loves the feel of an old book in your hands, we want to make these works available to you. There is something deeply moving about holding a second-hand Banner of Truth book, knowing that its words have already encouraged and instructed others and will continue to do so in your own life.
