The adventures of secret agent James Bond have a timeless appeal, and a complete collection of writer Ian Fleming's 007 novels comprise lots 48 – 62 of Dreweatts & Bloomsbury Auctions’ April 11th sale of Modern Literature in London.  Although all are in excellent condition, of particular note is a first edition of Casino Royale (1953), the book that introduced the character of James Bond, and made a further 11 Bond novels possible.

This iconic book, the dust-jacket of which was designed by Fleming himself, was an instant success with readers with 4,728 copies selling in the UK within a month of publication, and a further two print runs within the same month selling at the same speed.  More than 60 years later buyers have an opportunity to purchase one of the books from the original print run. This superb copy comes in an almost pristine dust-jacket and is priced at £10,000 – 15,000. [Lot 48]

Live and Let Die (1954) followed hot on the heels of Casino Royale and was published on the 5th April 1954. Fleming’s second Bond novel met with an equally favourable reception,  and a print run of 7,500 copies quickly sold out.  Written at Fleming’s estate in Jamaica, perhaps not surprisingly called ‘Goldeneye’, the story centres around Bond chasing the American criminal Mr. Big, who is involved in smuggling 17th century gold coins from British territories in the Caribbean. Another near-fine example of the first edition is estimated to sell for £4,000 – 6,000. [Lot 49]

 This auction will be held at Dreweatts & Bloomsbury Auctions’ London saleroom in the heart of Mayfair, with viewing from Monday 7h – Thursday 10th April. The catalogue and details of online bidding with no additional fee can be found at www.bloomsburyauctions.com.