Abe Books Reveals the Most Expensive Used Books It Sold in 2014

Used book dealer and Amazon sub Abe Books just posted its list for the 50 most expensive books it sold in 2014, some of which cost enough to buy you a small house in the midwest. (Coincidentally, a number of title on this list sold for more than the most expensive titles in the Kindle Store.)

The most expensive book was a 19th century French work called  Les Maîtres de L’Affiche. It sold for $43,450, edging out an original German copy of Das Kapital for the title. Other notable titles on this list include a signed first edition of John le Carré’s Call for the Dead ($22,000).

Abe Books also sold a copy of an edition of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland which was illustrated by Salvador Dali and came signed by the artist ($20,000). Abe Books reports that only 2,500 copies were produced, containing 12 memorable illustrations from the surrealist (including the two shown above). And much further down the list, you’ll find a signed second edition of The Hobbit, which sold for $11,000.

The list is 50 titles long, and ends with a first edition of Harper Lee’s novel, which sold for $9,000. All of the titles listed are far outside my reach, although it is fun to read about.

Have you spotted any gems you wish you could buy?

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