Sylvester Stallone is selling his collection of rare books at Heritage Auctions.
Among the highlights is a complete leather bound 1902 set of Sir Walter Scott’s enormously popular Waverly Novels, including a signed letter from Scott (1771-1832).
Stallone is clearly a voracious reader
It’s valued at up to $2,000.
There’s also a 22 volume set of writings by Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864), author of The Scarlet Letter, which is estimated to make $1,200.
It’s one of an edition of 500 and features a tipped-in customs certificate signed by Hawthorne himself.
There are also editions from writers as diverse as Tolstoy, Francis Bacon and Emile Zola.
This is the second instalment of the sale of Stallone’s private collection.
The first took place in 2015 and included a wealth of memorabilia from his storied Hollywood career. It pulled in $3m.
His iconic black leather jacket from the first Rocky movie was the highlight, selling for $149,000.
While the books on offer aren’t necessarily all that rare, the fact they originate from Stallone’s collection could well increase values.
Greg Rohan, president of Heritage Auctions, comments: "Stallone is one of the most accomplished screenwriters of our time.
"It is little surprise his library is filled with limited edition and rare examples of works from the giants of literature — many of which include rare signatures by the authors themselves."
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