Charles Dickens memorabilia: Why investors are acting now

In the week that the world celebrates his 200th 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 200th 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
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

Register to receive more in-depth articles from our dedicated team.

Register Here

Featured products

Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Sale price£399
In stock
Fidel Castro signed certificateFidel Castro Signed Certificate
Fidel Castro signed certificate
Sale price£2,995
In stock
King Henry VIII Autographed DocumentKing Henry VIII Autographed Document
King Henry VIII Autographed Document
Sale price£55,000
In stock