DALLAS — A rare uncorrected proof copy of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” is coming up for auction in Dallas. It will be part of a Historical Platinum auction event July 25.
This proof, one of only 200 ever printed, has misprints that were corrected in later publications, including misspelling the author, J.K. Rowling’s, name as “J. A Rowling” on the title page. It marks the first time Harry Potter appeared in print before the book was published in the '90s and the character became a global phenomenon.
St. Kenelm’s School in England bought the book for £1 (approximately $1.27) at a publisher’s book sale in 1997. The school kept the book in its library until 2002, where it was stored and forgotten until it was rediscovered by accident last year.
British business owner Dale Henry bought the proof, with the proceeds benefiting the school. The proceeds of the current sale will also be used to help a town near Oxfordshire in England, where the tourism-based economy has suffered during the recent economic downturn in Britain.
“When I first heard of the proof, I was immediately intrigued by both its unique history and its connection to the area – as well as the fact that my wife is a massive Potterhead,” said Henry. “I hope others are similarly compelled, and I see this auction as an opportunity to reinvest in the community during a tough time.”
A first edition of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” magicked up $471,000 at an auction in 2021. There were 500 copies printed of that edition and only 200 of the uncorrected proof.
Pre-bidding for the book begins July 1 and runs until the hammer date of July 25. Online bidding will also be available through North Texas-based Heritage Auctions.
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