The Ultimate Guide to the Coveted First Edition of Treasure Island: Unveil Its Rare and Alluring Features
Ahoy, Sobat Rare Treasures Online!
Welcome aboard, fellow treasure seekers! In this comprehensive guide, we embark on a literary voyage to discover the secrets and allure of the first edition of Robert Louis Stevenson’s timeless masterpiece, Treasure Island. Prepare to dive into the depths of this coveted treasure, uncovering its captivating history, distinctive qualities, and unparalleled value.
The Birth of a Literary Treasure: First Edition Treasure Island
The Creative Genesis
In 1881, a young Scottish author embarked on a writing adventure that would forever etch his name in literary history. Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island was born from a series of bedtime stories he spun for his stepson, Lloyd Osbourne. As the tale unfolded, it captivated not only young Lloyd but also Stevenson himself.
A Serendipitous Encounter
The first edition of Treasure Island emerged in 1883, published by Cassell & Company in London. It boasted 314 pages, adorned with a captivating map of the fictional Treasure Island drawn by Stevenson himself. Little did anyone know that this unassuming volume would set sail and become one of the most sought-after treasures in the world of rare books.
The Keys to Identifying a First Edition Treasure Island
Unraveling the Clues
Distinguishing a first edition of Treasure Island from its subsequent editions requires a keen eye and a thorough understanding of its unique features. Here’s a treasure map to guide you through the intricacies:
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Title Page: The first edition title page features a decorative border around the text and the imprint "Cassell & Company, Limited" at the bottom.
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Contents Page: The contents page should be unnumbered, unlike later editions where it bears a Roman numeral "IV."
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Page Numbers: First editions have the page numbers printed in the center of the bottom margin, without any hyphens or dashes following them.
The Market Value of a First Edition Treasure Island
A Precious Commodity
The value of a first edition of Treasure Island varies depending on its condition, rarity, and provenance. However, in general, these literary treasures command a high price in the antiquarian book market.
| Condition | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Fine | $250,000 – $500,000 |
| Very Good | $150,000 – $250,000 |
| Good | $75,000 – $150,000 |
| Fair | $50,000 – $75,000 |
| Poor | $25,000 – $50,000 |
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
Deciphering the Mysteries
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What is the most valuable first edition of Treasure Island?
- The most valuable copies are those in pristine condition with the original map and dust jacket intact.
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How many first editions of Treasure Island were printed?
- Around 10,000 copies of the first edition were printed.
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How can I tell if my Treasure Island is a first edition?
- Examine the title page, contents page, and page numbers for the distinctive features described above.
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What is the best way to preserve a first edition of Treasure Island?
- Store it in a cool, dry, and dark environment, protected from moisture and excessive handling.
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Where can I find a first edition of Treasure Island for sale?
- Rare book dealers, antiquarian book fairs, and online auctions are potential sources.
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What is the significance of the map in the first edition of Treasure Island?
- The map drawn by Stevenson himself is not only a navigational tool but also a work of art that adds to the book’s value.
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Is it legal to own a first edition of Treasure Island?
- Yes, it is legal to own a first edition of Treasure Island as long as it was acquired through legitimate means.
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What are the potential risks associated with investing in a first edition of Treasure Island?
- Authenticity, condition, and market demand can affect the investment value.
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What is the most recent sale of a first edition of Treasure Island?
- In 2022, a first edition with the original map sold for $422,000 at auction.
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What is the future outlook for the value of first editions of Treasure Island?
- The value of first editions is expected to continue rising due to their rarity and historical significance.
Embark on Your Own Treasure Hunt: Explore Related Articles
Avast, our intrepid treasure seekers! If your curiosity has been piqued, delve into these related articles for further adventures:
- [The Allure of First Editions: A Collector’s Guide to Rare and Valuable Books](link to article)
- [The Anatomy of a First Edition: Deciphering the Clues to Literary Treasure](link to article)
- [Preserving Your Literary Legacy: A Guide to Protecting Rare Books](link to article)
Set sail and discover the captivating world of rare books!
FAQ about First Edition Treasure Island
What is the first edition of Treasure Island?
The first edition of Treasure Island is the original publication of the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, released in 1883.
How can I identify a first edition copy?
First edition copies have the date "1883" printed on the title page and the publisher’s imprint of "Cassell & Company, Limited."
What are the key features of the first edition?
The first edition features a dark green cloth binding with gold lettering, a frontispiece illustration by Wal Paget, and a map of Treasure Island.
How many copies of the first edition were printed?
Approximately 10,000 copies of the first edition were printed.
What is the value of a first edition Treasure Island?
The value of a first edition Treasure Island can vary greatly depending on its condition and provenance. However, in good condition, a first edition can fetch tens of thousands of dollars.
Is there a difference between the British and American first editions?
Yes. The British first edition, published by Cassell & Company, has a darker green binding and different printing on the title page than the American first edition, published by Scribner.
What are some common errors in first edition copies?
Some first edition copies have misspellings, such as "chees" instead of "cheese" on page 124, and "wapor" instead of "vapor" on page 232.
How can I ensure I am buying a genuine first edition?
It is important to examine the book carefully for all the key features mentioned above. Additionally, you should consider purchasing from a reputable dealer or auction house.
Where can I find more information about first edition Treasure Island?
There are several resources available online and in libraries that provide more detailed information about the first edition of Treasure Island, including the Robert Louis Stevenson Society and the Treasure Island Museum.
Are there any other rare editions of Treasure Island?
Yes. There are several other rare editions of Treasure Island, including the "sixpenny" edition published in 1884, and the "Bradbury, Agnew, & Co." edition published in 1885. These editions are also quite valuable.
