Charles Dickens memorabilia: Why investors are acting now

The author's 200th birthday offers investors in Charles Dickens memorabilia great profit potential

In the week that the world celebrates his 200^th birthday, it is appropriate that we consider the potential of Charles Dickens memorabilia for investors seeking portfolio diversity.

Dickens has long been hugely popular with collectors, and his recent auction results are testament to the continuing high demand.

In 2009, Christie's New York sold a pre-publication presentation copy of A Christmas Carol, one of just eight known, for $290,500, 61.3% up on its $180,000 high-end estimate. It stands as a world record for a Dickens book.

More unusual items too can sell for substantial sums, such is the draw of the Dickens name.

The collar of his dog sold at Bonhams New York for $11,590 in March 2010, almost doubling its $6,000 estimate.

Switch on your radio or television during the course of his 200^th year and you will be bombarded with Dickens adaptations, while major exhibitions are taking place throughout the globe.

This mass attention is likely to garner increased interest in Charles Dickens memorabilia, causing values to improve upon their strong recent showings.

The value of a Dickens handwritten signed letter rose from £795 ($1,250) in 2000 to £3,950 ($6,200) in 2011, at a rate of 15.69% pa, according to the PFC40 Autograph Index.

Our experts have managed to source a superb handwritten, signed letter by Dickens, written in 1866. In it Dickens apologises to the recipient for his late reply: "Do me the justice to believe that I should have done so sooner…" he writes.

Charles Dickens, handwritten signed letter

A wonderful piece of literary history, it is available for £2,950 (approx. $4,630) - £1,000 ($1,570) below the index's valuation.

You will also receive our:

·     Certificate of Authenticity with lifetime moneyback guarantee

·     Free insured delivery

·     Free storage (if required)

For more details on the letter or to discuss other Charles Dickens memorabilia investments, contact us at:

info@paulfrasercollectibles.com

+44 (0) 117 933 9503

Or click here to register your interest in investment-grade collectibles.

"You and your company have done an incredible job in helping those like me get a handle on the collectable market, and using that information as a tool to invest."

Paul Fraser Collectibles customer

Recent and related articles

·  The Story of... Charles Dickens and the fascination with the man and his collectibles | 1 February 2012

·  'Why these rare autographs could be the best cheques you'll ever cash' | 18 January 2012

·  Emily Bronte portrait painting could reach Wuthering Heights at UK auction | 12 January 2012

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