Ian Fleming's Moonraker could prove a bargain in online books sale

The last time a James Bond '007' first edition of Moonraker was on the market, it sold for $50,400...

A potential bargain has cropped up in an Ohio, US, auction - and also online - in the form of an original first edition of Ian Fleming's Moonraker. Dated to 1955, Fleming's third James Bond '007' novel is estimated at just $500-700.

It's worth remembering that another Moonraker first edition sold for $50,400 in New York, in April of this year. Although that edition was also signed and inscribed by Fleming himself: "To Eileen M. Cond Who cannot be easily shocked! from Ian Fleming - 1955".

This copy doesn't have Fleming's autograph, which will lower its value significantly. Yet it was still be interesting to see what it sells for, especially given the enthusiasm which greets James Bond collectibles whenever they appear at auction.

This Ian Fleming first edition sold for $50,400 in New York, earlier this year

According to auction house Gray's lot notes, this edition still has its dust jacket by Kenneth Lewis (vital to its value). According to the condition report, its spine is faded, with some soiling and light rubbing, a few chips and nicks along edges and ends of spine panel.

Confirming the book's provenance is a bookseller's sticker on the front pastedown, and an ink ownership signature on the front free endpaper. With a dust jacket and good provenance, this book will certainly be one to watch when it auctions, next week (December 14).

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www.paulfrasercollectibles.com

Images: Gray's