Now, at 20 years old, JK Rowling’s book is the first of a seven-part series that was translated into 69 languages, selling an estimated 400m copies.
Early hardback copies of the 1997 book are coveted collector’s items. Three hundred of the original 500 copies went to schools and libraries, and the remaining 200 are valued highly. In 2016 one first edition, first run hardback of Philosopher’s Stone took a record £35,000 at Bonhams and a similar lot went for £13,000 at Forum Auctions in March this year.
As always, the paperbacks are the less expensive option and Peter Harrington is offering two first edition soft cover copies in recognition of the anniversary (officially June 26). Original copies were retailed at £4.99; today a good copy will sell for more than £4000. The copies at Peter Harrington are offered for £4950 and £4250.
The gallery estimates that a first edition hardback in good condition could be worth more than £50,000, but cautions that it must be a true copy. The truly valuable copies have a specific print line and date.
Additional material
It is not just Philosopher’s Stone first editions that sell. A handwritten copy of the spinoff text The Tales of Beedle the Bard sold for £368,750 including buyers’ premium at Sotheby’s in 2016 (another copy went for £1.95m in 2007 in a Sotheby’s charity auction). And an uncorrected proof copy of the Philosopher’s Stone along with proof cover art is estimated to take up to £2900 at Bonhams next week.
Thanks to the eventual popularity of the books, a number of editions and collectors sets were released and these too remain – more affordable – collectors’ items for fans and enthusiasts. Peter Harrington offers a selection of these as well, including a 'deluxe' collection of all seven books from Chelsea Bindery which is offered at £2500 and a limited printed edition of The Tales of Beedle the Bard singed by Rowling and available for £7500.
