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A first edition hardback copy of J.K. Rowling's novel Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. The Philosopher's Stone was the first in Rowling's Harry Potter series, which followed the adventures of a young wizard at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. It became one of the best-selling books of all time, sparking a worldwide phenomenon.

This copy is one of an initial run of just 500 hardback issues - the first ever printed - many of which were issued directly to libraries. Bloomsbury published it in 1997, and "10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1" features on the publisher's imprint page. There are two errors in the book which are unique to the first edition. Firstly, the rear cover displays a misspelling of "Philosopher's" as "Philospher's". Secondly, on page 53, the text "1 wand" is repeated twice on a list of equipment.

The back cover showcases artwork (by illustrator Thomas Taylor) of an eccentric wizard not mentioned in any of the books, who was based on the illustrator's father. Eventually, the publishers asked for the portrait to be changed to Hogwarts headmaster Professor Dumbledore. The book exhibits signs of wear on the dust jacket and there is a small tear on the publisher's imprint page, while the pages display some signs of discoloration. However, the lot remains in overall excellent condition, considering its age. Dimensions: 8" x 5.25" x 0.75" (20.5 cm x 13.5 cm x 2 cm)

Estimate: $100,000 - 200,000 δ

View all lots from HARRY POTTER AND THE PHILOSOPHER'S STONE (2001)

View all lots from HARRY POTTER - ALL ITEMS