A first edition copy of Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist from 1837 is expected to provide one of the many highlights in the auction of James O'Donoghue Fenning's stock of antiquarian books.

Set to be held on October 19 in Fenning's hometown of Dublin, the sale will see over 4,000 volumes and over 2m printed pages sold from the renowned bookseller's stock. Fenning was a respected third generation bookseller, renowned for his knowledge and his consistently high quality books.

This example features the famed Fireside Plate, which was later removed

The first edition, first issue copy of Oliver Twist is estimated at €4,000-6,000 ($5,244-7,864). The original printing is published in three unassuming volumes, featuring 24 plates created by George Cruikshank, including the famed "fireside plate" that was later removed. The current example is in "very good to nice" condition, with the attractive trade plates of Dublin bookseller Milliken on the front endpaper.

Paul Fraser Collectibles is currently offering a great selection of Charles Dickens signed documents, as well as authentic strands of his hair.

A notable rarity in the Goldsmith canon

At the top of the auction is Oliver Goldsmith's An history of the lives, actions, travels, sufferings, and deaths of the most eminent martyrs. Created in 1764, the work is adorned with a number of copper-plate cuts and is described as "a notable rarity in the Goldsmith canon". In excellent condition, it is expected to sell for €6,000-8,000 ($7,864-10,496).

Further highlights include a rare first London edition of Irish writer Jonathan Swift's A proposal for giving badges to the beggars in all the parishes in Dublin, which was published in 1737. The first London edition has only appeared at auction once in the last 50 years - another copy sold for £1,000 ($1,600) in 1980 - and is one of the hardest Swift titles to find. The present example is in good condition and has been valued at €6,000-7,000 ($7,864-9,188).

Paul Fraser Collectibles has a superb range of rare books and manuscripts available in our online store.