Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

A true first printing paperback of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J. K. Rowling, one of only 5,150 copies printed, issued simultaneously with the 500 hardback copies published by Bloomsbury in 1997, neither format taking bibliographic precedence. This example displays all requisite first issue points, including the Wendy Cooling quote to the foot of the front cover and the celebrated rear cover misprint “Philospher’s”, together with the inverted “Wizardry and Witchcraft”. Internally, the text contains the famous “1 wand” duplication error on page 53. The copyright page bears the complete 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 number line and the characteristic “Thomas Taylor1997” error, confirming the true first printing state.

A very good copy, completely unrestored, showing honest signs of careful reading. There is creasing to the front cover, most noticeably at the lower right corner, with lighter creasing to the rear cover and spine, entirely consistent with this fragile issue. The binding remains notably tight and sound. Some rubbing to the extremities and some laminate loss are present. The page edges are toned, as expected, while the interior remains clean and entirely free from ownership inscriptions or other marks.

A highly collectible example of one of the most iconic and elusive modern first printings in contemporary literature. Clamshell box not included.

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