Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

According to Bloomsbury, the paperback copy of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets was published on May 28th 1999, however , contemporaneous press reports indicate that the book was actually published in January 1999, which is also the date suggested on the proof cover for the paperback edition of the book. The total number of first printing paperback copies is still unknown. Signed copies of the paperback were offered for sale through bookshops in Edinburgh to help promote the release of the book, this is the likely origin of the present book. There were signing events conducted for this book, however, they were few and Jo often inscribed these copies, therefore a flat signed copy, without an inscription is exceptionally rare.

This is a lovely near fine copy, unread, with what appears to be a square and still very tight binding. The spine has some mild creasing and the book edges have some minor shelf wear however there are no major creases at all to the front or back cover. The page edges are mildly toned and there is some slight lifting of the laminate to the corners and along the fore-edge of the front and back cover. This is only minor and can only really be seen under certain lighting. Internally, there are no ownership inscriptions or writing of any kind with no dog eared pages, folds or creases to any of the pages. Overall this is an excellent copy with a beautiful 1999 variation of J.K. Rowling’s signature, big and bold to the dedication page in blue ballpoint pen.

The signature and inscription come fully authenticated by Adam Houston ‘theharrypotterspecialist’ the world’s leading expert in authenticating Jo’s signature. It comes with a full authentication package including a letter of authenticity and collector card.