Antique and Rare Book Auctions

The Book Department at Auctioneum: A Literary Legacy in Bath

Nestled in Bath, a city whose honey-colored stone is synonymous with English literary heritage, the Book Department at Auctioneum stands as a premier destination for collectors, historians, and bibliophiles alike. Bath has long been an inspiration for the giants of literature - from the sharp social satire of Jane Austen, who lived and wrote there, to the works of Mary Shelley and Charles Dickens. It is this deep-rooted connection to the written word that provides the perfect backdrop for our specialist auctions.

At Auctioneum, we don’t just sell books; we uncover stories. Our department specializes in everything from antiquarian volumes and fine bindings to modern first editions and significant manuscripts. Whether it is a single rare treasure or an expansive private library, our specialists approach every appraisal with the rigor and passion that these objects deserve.

Record-Breaking Discoveries
We pride ourselves on our ability to bring hidden gems to the global stage. A defining moment for our department was the discovery and sale of an "unimaginably rare" 1937 'true' first edition of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit. Found tucked away in a run-of-the-mill bookcase during a routine house clearance in Bristol, this copy was one of only 1,500 originally printed. Under the hammer in our Bath saleroom, the book sparked international competition, eventually selling for a staggering £43,000 - a world-record price for a first edition without its dust jacket. This sale serves as a testament to our global reach and the expertise of our team in identifying and marketing high-value literary assets.

Expert Valuations & Global Reach
Our team offers a professional, end-to-end service. We understand that books are often more than just paper and ink; they are historical artifacts with unique provenances. From assessing 17th-century vellum-bound texts to 20th-century classics, we utilize the latest market data and a vast network of international bidders to ensure the best possible results for our vendors.

Based in a city that celebrates the book in all its forms - Auctioneum continues the tradition of honoring the printed word. We invite your entries at our next auction, and look forward to helping you turn the first leaf of your auction journey!