20 Most Expensive Books Ever Sold: Rare Literary Treasures and Their Staggering Prices
Books have long captivated collectors and enthusiasts, with rare and historically significant volumes fetching astronomical prices at auctions and private sales.
The world of high-end book collecting represents a unique intersection of literature, history, and art appreciation.
The most expensive books ever sold reflect not only their rarity and condition but also their cultural and historical importance.
These prized tomes often boast exceptional provenance, exquisite craftsmanship, or groundbreaking content that has shaped human knowledge and understanding.
From ancient manuscripts to first editions of beloved classics, these literary treasures continue to fascinate bibliophiles and investors alike.
1. Codex Leicester by Leonardo da Vinci
The Codex Leicester, a collection of scientific writings by Leonardo da Vinci, holds the record for the most expensive book ever sold. Bill Gates purchased this 72-page manuscript in 1994 for $30.8 million at Christie’s auction house.
Created between 1506 and 1510, the Codex Leicester contains da Vinci’s observations and theories on various subjects. These include water, fossils, the movement of the earth, and the luminosity of the moon.
Written in da Vinci’s characteristic mirror script, the manuscript showcases his brilliant mind and diverse interests. It features numerous sketches and diagrams that illustrate his ideas and observations.
The Codex Leicester’s value stems from its rarity and historical significance. It provides unique insights into the thought processes of one of history’s greatest polymaths.
2. The Gospels of Henry the Lion
The Gospels of Henry the Lion is a remarkable 12th-century illuminated manuscript. Created for Henry the Lion, Duke of Saxony and Bavaria, this masterpiece fetched $11.7 million at auction in 1983.
Commissioned around 1175, the manuscript contains 266 pages adorned with 50 full-page illustrations. Its intricate gold leaf designs and vibrant colors showcase the pinnacle of Romanesque book art.
The Gospels’ historical significance stems from its association with Henry the Lion, a powerful medieval ruler. After centuries in private hands, the German government purchased it to prevent its export.
Today, the Gospels of Henry the Lion resides in the Herzog August Bibliothek in Wolfenbüttel, Germany. It remains a testament to medieval craftsmanship and continues to captivate scholars and art enthusiasts alike.
3. The Magna Carta
The Magna Carta, a pivotal historical document, fetched $21.3 million at auction in 2007. This 1297 version, one of only 17 surviving copies, was sold by the Perot Foundation to David Rubenstein.
The document’s significance lies in its role as a foundational text for constitutional law. It established limitations on royal power and protected certain rights of English citizens.
Rubenstein, a philanthropist and history enthusiast, loaned the Magna Carta to the National Archives in Washington, D.C. This gesture allowed public access to this rare and valuable piece of history.
The high price paid for the Magna Carta reflects its immense historical importance and scarcity. Its sale ranks it among the most expensive books and documents ever sold at auction.
4. The Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon, a sacred text of the Latter Day Saint movement, holds significant value in the rare book market. In 2017, a first edition copy sold for $1 million at Swann Auction Galleries in New York City.
This particular edition was published in 1830 in Palmyra, New York. It was one of only 5,000 copies printed in the initial run, making it exceptionally rare and sought-after by collectors.
The book’s historical and religious importance contributes to its high value. It contains the foundational teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which has millions of followers worldwide.
Preservation also plays a crucial role in determining the book’s worth. Well-maintained copies with minimal wear and original bindings command the highest prices at auctions and private sales.
5. Birds of America by John James Audubon
Birds of America is a masterpiece of ornithological illustration created by John James Audubon. The book features 435 hand-colored, life-size prints of North American birds.
Audubon’s work was published as a series between 1827 and 1838. The original edition was printed on handmade paper measuring 39.5 by 28.5 inches, known as “double elephant folio” size.
Only 120 complete sets are known to exist today. The rarity and artistic value of Birds of America have made it one of the most sought-after books in the world.
In December 2010, a complete first edition of Birds of America sold at Sotheby’s for $11.5 million. This sale set a record for the most expensive printed book ever sold at auction.
The book’s value stems from its historical significance, artistic merit, and scarcity. Audubon’s detailed illustrations continue to be admired by art enthusiasts and ornithologists alike.
6. Shakespeare’s First Folio
Shakespeare’s First Folio is a cornerstone of literary history. Published in 1623, seven years after the playwright’s death, it contains 36 of his plays.
The First Folio is highly valued for preserving many of Shakespeare’s works that might have otherwise been lost. Only about 750 copies were originally printed, and fewer than 250 are known to exist today.
In 2001, a copy of the First Folio sold at Christie’s auction house for $6.16 million. This sale set a record for the highest price paid for a Shakespeare First Folio at the time.
The rarity and cultural significance of the First Folio contribute to its high value. It remains one of the most sought-after books among collectors and institutions worldwide.
7. The Rothschild Prayerbook
The Rothschild Prayerbook is a Renaissance masterpiece of illuminated manuscripts. It was created in Flanders around 1505-1510 for a member of the Habsburg court.
This book of hours contains 67 full-page miniatures and 140 decorated borders. It showcases the work of several master artists, including Gerard Horenbout and Simon Bening.
The prayerbook’s exquisite craftsmanship and historical significance contribute to its immense value. In 2014, it was sold at Christie’s auction house for $13.6 million.
Prior to this sale, the Rothschild Prayerbook had an eventful history. It was confiscated by the Nazis during World War II and later returned to the Rothschild family.
The book’s beauty and rarity make it one of the most valuable illuminated manuscripts in private hands. Its sale price reflects its importance in the world of rare books and art.
8. Bay Psalm Book
The Bay Psalm Book holds a significant place in American publishing history. Printed in 1640, it was the first book produced in British North America. This rare volume fetched $14.2 million at auction in 2013.
Only 11 copies of the Bay Psalm Book are known to exist today. The book contains English translations of the Psalms, intended for use in colonial churches. Its creation marked an important step in the development of early American literature and printing.
The sale price reflects the book’s historical importance and scarcity. It represents a tangible link to the early days of European settlement in North America. The Bay Psalm Book’s value lies not only in its age but also in its cultural significance.
9. The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer
Geoffrey Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales” is a cornerstone of English literature. A first edition of this masterpiece, printed by William Caxton in 1477, sold for £4.6 million ($7.5 million) in 1998.
This sale took place at Christie’s auction house in London. The book was purchased by Sir Paul Getty, son of oil tycoon J. Paul Getty.
The Canterbury Tales is a collection of 24 stories written in Middle English. It depicts a group of pilgrims traveling from London to Canterbury Cathedral.
Only 12 copies of this first edition are known to exist. Of these, only two remain in private hands. The rarity and historical significance of this work contribute to its high value.
10. The Gutenberg Bible
The Gutenberg Bible holds a significant place in history as the first major book printed using movable type in Europe. Produced by Johannes Gutenberg in the 1450s, this revolutionary work marked the beginning of the age of printed books in the Western world.
Only 49 copies of the Gutenberg Bible are known to exist today, making it incredibly rare and valuable. In 1987, a complete copy sold for a staggering $5.4 million at Christie’s auction house in New York.
The Bible’s value stems from its historical importance and scarcity. Its pages are made of high-quality vellum, and many copies feature intricate hand-painted illustrations. The text is printed in two columns using a Gothic typeface designed to mimic handwritten manuscripts.
Collectors and institutions prize the Gutenberg Bible for its cultural significance and beauty. Its rarity and historical importance continue to drive its value in the rare book market.
11. Tamerlane and Other Poems by Edgar Allan Poe
Edgar Allan Poe’s first published work, “Tamerlane and Other Poems,” holds a significant place in literary history. Released in 1827 when Poe was just 18 years old, the book was printed in an extremely limited run of only 50 copies.
The rarity of this collection has made it highly sought after by collectors. In 2009, a copy of “Tamerlane and Other Poems” sold at Christie’s auction house for $662,500, setting a record for a work of American literature.
The slim volume contains 10 poems, including the title piece “Tamerlane,” inspired by the life of the Central Asian conqueror Timur. Poe published the book under the pseudonym “A Bostonian,” perhaps to distance himself from his family’s expectations.
Despite its current value, the book received little attention upon its initial release. It wasn’t until Poe’s later success that “Tamerlane and Other Poems” gained recognition as a rare and valuable piece of literary history.
12. The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K. Rowling
J.K. Rowling’s “The Tales of Beedle the Bard” sold for a staggering £1.95 million ($3.98 million) at a Sotheby’s auction in 2007. This handwritten and illustrated book is one of only seven copies created by the author.
Rowling crafted each copy with intricate details, including hand-drawn illustrations and semi-precious stones adorning the cover. The book contains five wizarding fairy tales mentioned in the Harry Potter series.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos purchased this unique copy. The proceeds from the sale were donated to Rowling’s children’s charity, Lumos. This rare edition stands out as a testament to Rowling’s creativity and philanthropic efforts.
The book’s value stems from its limited availability, connection to the Harry Potter universe, and Rowling’s personal touch. Its sale price reflects the enduring popularity of the wizarding world created by the author.
13. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
Lewis Carroll’s beloved children’s book “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” holds a special place in literary history and the rare book market. In 2016, a first edition copy of this classic tale sold for $1.54 million at auction.
This particular copy was one of the original 23 presentation copies printed in 1865. Carroll had withdrawn these copies due to quality issues with the illustrations, making them extremely rare and valuable.
The book’s buyer remained anonymous, but the sale price reflects the enduring popularity and significance of Carroll’s whimsical story. First published in 1865, “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” has captivated readers for generations with its imaginative characters and surreal plot.
14. The Constitution of the United States
The Constitution of the United States, signed in 1787, is one of the most valuable historical documents in existence. In 2012, a rare original copy sold for $9.8 million at auction.
This particular copy was printed for delegates to the Continental Congress and the Constitutional Convention. It is one of only 11 known surviving copies from the official first printing.
The document outlines the fundamental principles and laws of the United States government. Its sale price reflects its immense historical significance and rarity.
The buyer, David Rubenstein, co-founder of the Carlyle Group, loaned the document to the National Archives for public display. This ensures that this priceless piece of American history remains accessible to the public.
15. The Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence, a fundamental document in American history, sold for $8.1 million in 2000. This rare copy, one of only 25 known to exist, was printed on the night of July 4, 1776.
Norman Lear, the television producer, purchased the document at a Sotheby’s auction. It was originally discovered in 1989 by a man who bought a painting for $4 at a flea market and found the Declaration hidden in its frame.
The document’s high value stems from its historical significance and scarcity. It represents a pivotal moment in the formation of the United States, marking the colonies’ formal separation from British rule.
This sale highlights the immense value placed on artifacts connected to the founding of nations. It demonstrates the ongoing fascination with and reverence for key historical documents.
16. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
A rare first edition of J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” sold for £356,000 ($471,000) at auction in 2021. This copy was one of only 500 hardback first editions printed in 1997.
The book’s value stems from its rarity and cultural impact. It launched the Harry Potter series, which became a global phenomenon and sparked a multi-billion dollar franchise.
Distinguishing features of this first edition include a misspelling of “Philosopher’s” on the back cover and a unique number sequence on the copyright page. These details make it highly sought after by collectors.
The sale price demonstrates the enduring appeal of Harry Potter and the significant value placed on rare literary artifacts. It ranks among the most expensive modern books ever sold at auction.
17. James Bond: Casino Royale by Ian Fleming
Ian Fleming’s debut James Bond novel, “Casino Royale,” holds a special place in the world of rare books. A first edition copy of this iconic work sold for £55,000 ($68,000) at a Sotheby’s auction in 2021.
Published in 1953, “Casino Royale” introduced the world to the suave British secret agent, James Bond. The book’s initial print run was modest, with only 4,728 copies produced.
The value of “Casino Royale” first editions has steadily increased over the years. Collectors prize copies in excellent condition, especially those with intact dust jackets.
This particular sale demonstrates the enduring appeal of Fleming’s creation and the high demand for rare editions of classic literary works. The Bond franchise has since become a global phenomenon, further enhancing the value of its literary origins.
18. The Federalist Papers
The Federalist Papers, a collection of 85 essays, were sold for $9.8 million in 2013. This rare first edition set was published in 1788 and contains writings by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay.
The essays were originally printed in New York newspapers to promote the ratification of the United States Constitution. They are considered foundational documents in American political philosophy and constitutional interpretation.
This particular set was especially valuable due to its excellent condition and its connection to Alexander Hamilton. It contained Hamilton’s handwritten notes and corrections, adding to its historical significance.
The sale took place at Sotheby’s auction house in New York City. The buyer remained anonymous, but the purchase price set a record for an American book or manuscript at the time.
19. Ulysses by James Joyce
James Joyce’s “Ulysses” is a landmark of modernist literature that has captivated readers and collectors alike. In 2009, a first edition copy of this novel sold for $460,000 at Christie’s auction house in New York.
This particular copy was one of only 100 signed by Joyce himself. It was printed on handmade paper and bound in blue leather, adding to its rarity and value.
“Ulysses” follows a day in the life of Leopold Bloom in Dublin, paralleling Homer’s Odyssey. Its stream-of-consciousness style and complex structure have made it both challenging and revered.
The book’s high price reflects its significant literary status and the scarcity of signed first editions. It remains a prized possession for serious book collectors and institutions.
20. In Our Time by Ernest Hemingway
Ernest Hemingway’s “In Our Time” holds a significant place in the world of rare book collecting. Published in 1924, this short story collection marked Hemingway’s debut as a novelist.
A first edition of “In Our Time” sold for $321,600 at a Christie’s auction in 2004. This particular copy was one of only 170 produced in the original print run.
The book’s value stems from its rarity and its importance in Hemingway’s literary career. It introduced his distinctive writing style and themes that would define his later works.
“In Our Time” features some of Hemingway’s most famous short stories, including “Indian Camp” and “Big Two-Hearted River.” These stories showcase his sparse prose and exploration of post-war disillusionment.
The high price paid for this book reflects both its literary significance and its status as a collectible item. It remains a prized possession for serious book collectors and Hemingway enthusiasts alike.
Factors Influencing Book Prices
Several key elements determine the astronomical prices of rare and collectible books. These factors intertwine to create the extraordinary value seen in the most expensive volumes ever sold.
Historical Significance
Books that played pivotal roles in shaping history often fetch astronomical prices. First editions of foundational texts in science, philosophy, or literature are highly sought after. The Gutenberg Bible, for instance, commands immense value as the first major book printed with movable type in Europe.
Works that document significant historical events or periods also attract high bids. Original manuscripts or early printings of important political documents, such as the United States Constitution, can sell for millions.
Books owned or annotated by historical figures add another layer of value. A copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio owned by King Charles I would likely command a premium price due to its royal provenance.
Authorial Importance
The reputation and influence of an author greatly impact a book’s value. First editions by renowned writers like William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, or Jane Austen often sell for staggering amounts.
Signed copies or books with author inscriptions can multiply the price significantly. A first edition of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” with a personal note from the author would likely fetch a much higher price than an unsigned copy.
Manuscripts or early drafts of famous works also hold immense value. These provide insight into the author’s creative process and are often unique or extremely rare.
Rarity and Condition
The scarcity of a book is a crucial factor in determining its price. Limited print runs, surviving copies of ancient texts, or books that were mostly destroyed contribute to rarity.
Condition plays a vital role in valuation. Books in pristine condition, especially if they retain their original binding or dust jacket, command higher prices. Collectors prize “fine” or “as new” copies.
Unique features can increase rarity and value. These might include special bindings, illustrations by famous artists, or printing errors that were quickly corrected.
Books with interesting histories, such as those rescued from fires or shipwrecks, can also see their value increase due to their unique stories and limited survival.
Notable Auctions and Sales
Rare book auctions and private sales have driven record-breaking prices for the world’s most valuable literary works. These events showcase the elite market for antiquarian books and manuscripts.
Auction Houses
Christie’s and Sotheby’s dominate high-end rare book auctions. In 2019, Christie’s sold a first edition of John James Audubon’s “Birds of America” for $9.65 million. Sotheby’s auctioned Leonardo da Vinci’s “Codex Leicester” for $30.8 million in 1994, setting a world record.
Regional auction houses also play a role. In 2013, Bay Psalm Book fetched $14.2 million at Sotheby’s New York, becoming the most expensive printed book ever sold at auction.
Private Sales
Private transactions often involve even higher sums than public auctions. Bill Gates purchased the Codex Leicester privately in 1994 for $30.8 million.
In 2007, the Rothschild Prayerbook sold privately for $13.4 million before reselling at Christie’s in 2014 for $13.6 million. The British Library acquired the St Cuthbert Gospel for £9 million in 2012 through a private sale.
Private collectors and institutions sometimes negotiate directly. In 2000, the German government purchased the Gospels of Henry the Lion for €8.1 million in a private transaction.