Early Edition Sherlock Holmes Novel Auctions For Big
An early copy of The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle has sold for almost ten times its guide price in an auction in Essex.
The Sherlock Holmes book sold for £3,900 ($6,000) as part of the Sworders Fine Art Auctioneers auction. The book was published in 1902 and was part of a collection owned by Mary Jakeman, a maid to the Conan Doyles. Jakeman accompanied the family on trips overseas to the United States as well as Australia.
Her collection also contained letters, articles and photographs – sold in 11 lots totalling over £8,600 ($13,350).
These one-of-a-kind items garnered interest across the globe, with many online bids.
“The sale price of the book was a genuine surprise. It’s early, but not a first edition, and it’s not in perfect condition,” Managing director Guy Schooling said. “However, what makes it so attractive is that it has come directly from Mary Jakeman – so it’s just one step from Conan Doyle himself.
“This auction shows that memorabilia linked to Sherlock Holmes is more popular as ever.
“But what might surprise Holmes himself is the unprecedented level of online interest. It goes to show that his appeal really does stand the test of time!”
