Oxfam shop receives a magical donation. First edition of The Philosopher's Stone auctioned for almost £1000
21 January 2010
Staff at Oxfam's Nicolson Street bookshop in Edinburgh were left spellbound when a first edition of JK Rowling's Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone raised almost £1000 at auction.
The book was discovered among donations dropped into an Oxfam book bank before being sent to the Nicolson Street shop. Despite it's fairly tatty condition, staff soon realised the book was a first edition of JK Rowling's hugely successful debut novel.
It was auctioned at Lyon and Turnbull Auction House in Edinburgh and Oxfam staff were stunned when it sold for £920 to a mystery telephone bidder.
Store manager David Hendrie said:
"The book came in as part of a bundle that was left at one of our Oxfam donation banks, like the ones you find in supermarket car parks.
"Our staff know their books and spotted straight away that it was a first edition and very collectible.
"But it wasn't in great condition and was a bit tatty so we weren't sure how much it would sell for. Rather than put it up for sale in the shop we sold it at auction and we were thrilled when a telephone bidder eventually paid £920 for it.
"It's a truly magical figure for Oxfam to raise with one sale and it will be put to very good use helping Oxfam to carry out vital work around the world, such as in places like Haiti where every penny will make a difference to the survivors of the earthquake.
"First editions of Harry Potter books are very rare and we would like to thank whoever donated it.
"Every once in a while a gem like this turns up in the shop and it's always a real thrill to see it sell for such a fantastic amount. We're delighted it has found a new home with someone who clearly knows its value and will look after it."
Oxfam shops need donations to help fund the charity's many projects around the world.
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