Full Breakdown
Rare 400-Year-Old Bible Fetches £23,000 at Auction
12/9/2025, 10:10:05 PM
Auction Highlights and Sale Details
A rare edition of the King James Bible, printed in 1611, was sold at auction for £23,000, significantly exceeding its initial estimated value of £2,000 to £4,000. The auction took place in North Yorkshire, where book dealer Simon Finch from Norfolk acquired the Bible, marking a notable event in the world of rare book collecting.
Significance of the Bible
This particular Bible is one of the earliest printings of the King James version and is distinguished by a notable printing error in the book of Ruth. The text incorrectly states "and he went into the city" instead of the correct "and she went into the city." This error, which was quickly rectified in subsequent printings, has made the first editions highly sought after, with the misprinted versions referred to as "He" versions, while the corrected ones are known as "She" versions.
Bidding Dynamics
The auctioneer reported that the bidding commenced at £10,500, driven by a surge of advance offers, and rapidly escalated to the final sale price of £23,000. Finch expressed his satisfaction with the purchase, stating, "It's a wonderful thing. I really was happy to pay the money." He emphasized the importance of personally examining the Bible before the auction, which he believes contributed to his successful bid.
Condition and Rarity
Despite the Bible missing its map and title page, which are common losses in surviving copies, Finch noted that the overall condition of the book was impressive. Coralie Thomson, a specialist in rare books, highlighted that very few copies exist without significant damage, making this particular Bible a valuable addition to any collection.
Expert Commentary
Thomson explained the historical context of the King James Bible, which was commissioned by King James I in 1604 and took nearly seven years to complete, involving around 50 leading scholars of the time. The significance of the printing error has made these early editions particularly desirable among collectors.
Conclusion
The sale of this 400-year-old Bible not only reflects the enduring interest in historical texts but also underscores the dynamic nature of the rare book market, where items can far exceed their initial estimates based on collector demand and historical significance.
