A rare first edition of Beatrix Potter's first book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, is coming to auction.
Unable to find a publisher, Potter produced 250 copies of her charming work in December 1901.
 Potter was born 150 years ago |
This copy, said by auctioneer Dreweatts and Bloomsbury to be "exceptional", is expected to make up to £35,000 ($50,960) when it sells in London on July 28.
Its status as the book that won Potter fame, in addition to its scarcity and enduring popularity with readers young and old, should ensure a strong price.
The book headlines an auction dedicated to Potter, designed to mark the 150th anniversary of the author's birthday.
Many pieces come from the collection of John Cawood, a leading member of the Beatrix Potter Society whose passion for Potter developed as a youngster.
"[Cawood] always strived to buy the best condition of any title and this sale presents an excellent opportunity for new collectors to acquire some of the best examples of [Potter's] work," explains the auction house.
Also included in the sale is an original Potter illustration for The Story of Miss Moppet (1906), which has a £12,000 ($17,470) high estimate.
A first edition, first issue of The Tailor of Gloucester is another highlight. One of just 500 produced in 1902, its rarity ensures a £4,000 ($5,820) valuation.
Collectors adore original pieces of Beatrix Potter history. Her record stands at £289,500 ($421,725), set by a large watercolour depicting several rabbits leaving a Christmas party.
Another first edition of Peter Rabbit sold for $95,600 in 2004.
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