Description

A first edition, first printing, copy of Ian Fleming's Casino Royale, published by Jonathan Cape in 1953. This is an incredibly scarce first issue of the inaugural James Bond book, the success of which launched the ensuing world famous series.

In very good, near fine condition with only some foxing to the page edge and end-papers. There are no inscriptions inside and the wrapper is unrestored. The wrapper is not price clipped, has no chips and no sunning to the spine. There is some general foxing to the rear panel and a little wear to the top of the spine, but for a first edition like this from almost 60 years ago, the condition is excellent. Comes complete with a custom-made clamshell box.

Vintage Seekers says

A rare opportunity to acquire a highly collectible piece. First released on 13 April 1953 in the UK as a hardcover edition by publishers Jonathan Cape, priced at 10s, 6d each, with a cover devised by Fleming himself. When a book is first released nobody knows if the title will be critically acclaimed, therefore first edition books are always released in small print runs, making them very rare and collectible today. In this instance, just 4,728 copies of Casino Royale were printed, selling out in less than a month.

The habit of building exquisite personal libraries dates back to the Renaissance, when owning a collection of illuminated manuscripts demonstrated one's wealth, erudition and status. A first edition vintage book, like this one, is an exceedingly good investment that will only appreciate in value if kept in good condition.

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