He was found guilty in 2006 of stealing 97 rare maps originally valued at more than US$3 million.

There is a collection of rare old maps of the area available for scholarly research.

An auction of rare maps, prints and books ranging from about $60 to $25,000 will follow.

Support the acquisition of rare maps and further the development, enhancement and promotion of the world's largest and most comprehensive cartographic collection.

This collection also included rare maps and cartography dating to the 17th Century.

Old Maps & Prints offers one-of-a-kind rare maps and illustrations, with a focus on Asia.

Except for a few examples of rare and early maps, little attention is given to the standard history of cartography favored by many map shows.

Inside is a rare Mongolian cosmological map carved into a large stone which illustrates the zodiac and positions of numerous stars.

A very rare map of historic Savannah showing the first four of the city's 24 squares was bought by John in the 1980's for $1,500.

Between May and August, over 100 rare maps are stolen from the National Library of Wales.