Heritage’s rare book auction saw a number of classic children’s books sold, as well as the more challenging scientific and literary texts.
One very successful lot was a signed, first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The book was of the very first printing, and was inscribed to the interviewer for J K Rowling’s first major newspaper interview.
The interviewer was Elisabeth Dunn of the Daily Telegraph. Dunn was chain-smoking Gauloises cigarettes at the time, and Rowling who had recently quit the habit couldn’t resist leaning into the smoke.
This is reflected in the cheery inscription: "Breathe some more / smoke my way! / J. K. Rowling." written in clear black ink.
The limited number of copies of the first printing contained a number of slight differences to other first editions, for example a dedication to ‘Joanne Rowling’ inside, rather than ‘J K Rowling'.
Expected to bring up to $15,000, the book exceeded expectations. Whilst some bids had been placed online, it was at the live auction that the winning bid of $23,900 was placed.
Fans of Harry Potter (or friends of fans, or just those looking for an interesting investment) may wish to know that a signed copy of the Philosopher's Stone is currently available at Paul Fraser Collectibles.
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