Collectable books

[Jcwjosh]

Good Morning,

I am considering buying a 1st edition 1st print Harry potter book for my sons first christmas, with a view that it would be worth a bit more in 10-20 years time aswell as being one of my favourties. I wondered if anyone else dabbles in collecting books ? Or invested in books, it feels odd to me spending over £1000 on a book.

Ive also considered some of Ian Flemings bond books but not sure if these would have a smiliar value.

[Jcwjosh]

ChrisPackit said:

Hi

I collect Ian Fleming 1st editions and started around 15 years ago when the prices weren't quite as high as they are now. I have the full set of 14 novels, all in 1st / 1st state except CR and LALD which are 2nd impressions. I would hope my set would fetch a 5 figure sum if sold (and I didn't pay anywhere near that over the years) but you can pay £50,000+ for the 1st / 1st of Casino Royale in mint condition (less than 5000 printed worldwide)

So in answer to your question, I would imagine it's a pretty safe bet buying a HP 1st, but which one would it be? Ive seen the 1st / 1st of Philosophers Stone go for £25-£30,000 so it can't be that one. I have a couple of 1st Harry Potter paperbacks but nowhere near as collectible as the HB. Remember to buy on condition too, the dust jacket is more important than the book itself believe it or not so pay attention to this. Also, ex-library books are worth a lot less than shop sold books too.

HTH

Chris

Hi Chris, thanks for sharing your collecting history and thoughts.

It was a 1st editiion 1st print hardback Philosophers stone on ebay, up for £1750.. The seller made me a reduced offer still over £1000.

It had a good condition dust jacket, . I have just checked and it has now sold so i guess it was a good deal. I will still keep an eye out i think. I did notice that it was a ted smart and not a bloomsbury so i guess this is why its value is less am i correct in saying that ?