StoryLTD's online book auction showcased first editions, rare and limited edition books

StoryLTD's online book auction of First Editions, Rare and Limited Edition Books was conducted between 14 and 15 November. The auction, which was the first of its kind in StoryLTD's category of book auctions, saw close to 60% of lots sell for a total sales value of Rs. 56.5 lakhs ($88,280). 

Leading the sale was a signed and limited edition copy of photographs of the Beatles, signed by Michael Ward. The lot sold at ten times its lower estimate of Rs 60,000 - 80,000 ($940 - 1,410) for a winning bid of Rs 7.5 lakhs ($ 11,745). Other top lots included a signed copy of Rabindranath Tagore's Gitanjali which sold for Rs 4.2 lakhs ($6,563); Aristophanes' Lysistrata, signed and illustrated by Picasso which sold for Rs 4 lakhs ($ 6,300); and a set of 3 first edition James Bond books by Ian Fleming which sold for Rs 3.8 lakhs ($ 5,964). 

"We are pleased with StoryLTD's auction of first editions, signed and limited edition books, which saw strong results on Wednesday. This particular category appeals not just to collectors of rare books, but to a broad range of buyers that include art aficionados. With this sale, StoryLTD has successfully diversified the genre, range and quality of books it is able to source and offer on auction. The sale has further established the category of book auctions as one that collectors eagerly anticipate each year," said Hugo Weihe, CEO, Saffronart