Rare book editions hold immense historical and monetary value. Their last known sales often break records, reflecting their significance and rarity. Here, we explore some of the most coveted rare books and the details of their most recent sales.
The Gutenberg Bible (1455)
Printed in 1455, is one of the most sought-after books in the world. Johann Gutenberg’s masterpiece marks the beginning of the era of mass-produced books, thanks to the invention of movable type. Only 49 copies are known to exist today, with just 21 complete editions. In 1987, a complete Gutenberg Bible sold at auction for $5.4 million, setting a record at the time. This rare piece’s value has only increased over the years due to its historical importance and limited availability. The Gutenberg Bible is not just a book but a symbol of the dawn of the printed word.
The First Folio by William Shakespeare (1623)
The First Folio, published in 1623, is a collection of William Shakespeare’s plays. This compilation is crucial as it preserved many of his works that might have been lost. The First Folio contains 36 plays, including 18 that had never been printed before. A copy of the First Folio was sold at Christie’s in October 2020 for $9.98 million, setting a new world auction record for any work of literature. The First Folio’s rarity and Shakespeare’s enduring legacy make it one of the most valuable books in literary history. Its significance lies in its preservation of some of the most important works of English literature.
Birds of America by John James Audubon (1827–1838)
John James Audubon’s “Birds of America” is a visually stunning book, known for its detailed and lifelike illustrations of a wide variety of birds. Published between 1827 and 1838, it contains 435 hand-colored prints, each created from Audubon’s original watercolor paintings. In June 2018, a complete first edition of “Birds of America” was sold for $9.65 million at Sotheby’s. This sale underscores the book’s status as a masterpiece of natural history and art.
The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer (1477)
Geoffrey Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales” is a cornerstone of English literature. The first edition, printed by William Caxton in 1477, is exceptionally rare. This work is celebrated for its vivid storytelling and insight into medieval life. A first edition copy was last sold in July 1998 for $7.5 million. Its rarity stems from its age and the historical context in which it was printed. “The Canterbury Tales” remains a critical piece of literary history, with its early printings highly coveted by collectors.
The Codex Leicester by Leonardo da Vinci (1508–1510)
The Codex Leicester, also known as the Codex Hammer, is a collection of scientific writings by Leonardo da Vinci. This manuscript showcases Leonardo’s explorations and observations on various topics, including water movement, fossils, and astronomy. In 1994, Bill Gates purchased the Codex Leicester for $30.8 million, making it the most expensive book ever sold. The manuscript’s rarity and the insight it provides into Leonardo’s genius contribute to its extraordinary value. It stands as a testament to the unparalleled intellect of one of history’s greatest minds.
De Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestium by Nicolaus Copernicus (1543)
In 2008, a first edition of Copernicus’s “De Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestium” fetched $2.2 million at a Sotheby’s auction. This groundbreaking work introduced the heliocentric model, revolutionizing our understanding of the cosmos. Its impact on science and history is immeasurable. The rarity of this edition lies in its historical significance and limited availability. Many copies have been lost or damaged over the centuries. Those that remain are highly prized by collectors and scholars alike.
Tamerlane and Other Poems by Edgar Allan Poe (1827)
A rare first edition of Edgar Allan Poe’s “Tamerlane and Other Poems” sold for $662,500 in 2009 at Christie’s. This collection, published anonymously, marked Poe’s debut as a poet. Its simplicity and the anonymity of the author add to its mystique and value. “Tamerlane and Other Poems” is exceedingly rare, with only a handful of copies known to exist. Its modest initial print run and the young Poe’s anonymity contribute to its scarcity.
Ulysses by James Joyce (1922)
In 2020, a first edition of James Joyce’s “Ulysses” sold for $447,000 at Sotheby’s. This monumental work, published in Paris by Shakespeare and Company, has shaped modernist literature. Its controversial content and complex narrative structure make it a unique piece of literary history. The rarity of “Ulysses” first editions is due to its limited initial print run and subsequent censorship. Many copies were confiscated or destroyed. Surviving copies are highly sought after by collectors, driving up their value significantly.
The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K. Rowling (2007)
In 2016, one of the seven handmade copies of “The Tales of Beedle the Bard” by J.K. Rowling sold for $467,000 at Sotheby’s. This book, a spin-off from the Harry Potter series, was originally gifted to individuals closely associated with the series. Its intricate leather binding and silver decorations make it a standout piece. The rarity of this edition comes from its extremely limited distribution. Only seven copies were created, each unique and meticulously crafted. This exclusivity makes it a highly coveted item among Harry Potter enthusiasts and book collectors.
The Book of Kells (c. 800 AD)
The Book of Kells is a masterpiece of medieval art. Created by Celtic monks, it is an illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels of the New Testament. This book is famous for its intricate illustrations and ornate Latin text. Each page brims with vibrant colors and elaborate designs, showcasing an unparalleled level of craftsmanship. Rarity makes the Book of Kells invaluable. Its last known sale was in 2011, when a high-quality facsimile sold for around $20,000. The original remains housed in Trinity College, Dublin, and is considered priceless.
The Bay Psalm Book (1640)
The Bay Psalm Book is a cornerstone of American printing history. Published in 1640, it is the first book printed in British North America. This psalter was used by Puritan settlers in Massachusetts. Its plain text and simple binding reflect the Puritan aesthetic and values of the time. Its rarity makes it immensely valuable. One of the 11 surviving copies sold for $14.2 million in 2013 at a Sotheby’s auction. This sale set a record for the most expensive printed book ever sold. Collectors prize this book for its historical and cultural importance.
The Tales of Beatrix Potter (1901–1902)
The Tales of Beatrix Potter comprises beloved children’s stories. These include “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” and “The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin.” Potter’s enchanting illustrations and charming narratives have captivated generations. Her first editions are particularly treasured by collectors. Rarity boosts the value of these early editions. A first edition of “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” sold for $75,000 in 2016. This sale was handled by Sotheby’s. Potter’s works continue to charm readers and hold significant value in the rare book market.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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