BackRevealing the Most Expensive Book in the World
1. The Codex Leicester by Leonardo da Vinci
The Codex Leicester, an extraordinary manuscript by Leonardo da Vinci, stands as a testament to the genius of the Renaissance master. This renowned compilation of scientific writings, sketches, and observations spans a range of subjects from astronomy to water movement. Written in Da Vinci's characteristic mirror script, the Codex provides a fascinating glimpse into his innovative mind and relentless curiosity. Purchased by Bill Gates in 1994 for $30.8 million, this manuscript remains one of the most prized and valuable books ever sold, illustrating the enduring legacy of Da Vinci's intellect and creativity.
2. The Gospels of Henry the Lion
The Gospels of Henry the Lion, an exquisite 12th-century manuscript, stands as a testament to medieval artistry and devotion. Commissioned by Henry the Lion, Duke of Saxony, this lavishly illustrated gospel book was intended for the Brunswick Cathedral. It features intricate illuminations and elaborate decorations, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the period. The manuscript was auctioned in 1983 for a staggering sum, reflecting its historical and cultural significance. Today, it remains one of the most prized possessions of the German state, symbolizing a rich legacy of religious and artistic heritage.
3. The Birds of America by John James Audubon
One of the most iconic and valuable books in history, "The Birds of America" by John James Audubon, stands out for its exquisite detail and impressive scale. Published in the early 19th century, this masterpiece contains 435 life-sized watercolor illustrations of various bird species found in the United States. Each page showcases Audubon's dedication to capturing the beauty and diversity of avian life, making it a treasured piece among collectors and natural history enthusiasts. Its exceptional artistry and limited availability significantly impact rare book prices, contributing to its enduring legacy and high demand among bibliophiles.
4. The Bay Psalm Book
The Bay Psalm Book, printed in 1640, holds the distinction of being the first book ever printed in British North America. This book is a significant piece of history, not only for its religious content but also for its remarkable journey through time. With only 11 known copies in existence today, its rarity and cultural importance have made it one of the most valuable books in the world. In 2013, a copy of The Bay Psalm Book was sold at auction for an astonishing $14.2 million, underscoring its immense value to collectors and historians alike.
5. The Rothschild Prayerbook
The Rothschild Prayerbook, a masterpiece of Renaissance art, is renowned for its exquisite illuminations and historical significance. Commissioned in the early 1500s, this stunning manuscript is a prime example of Flemish book art, showcasing intricate details and vibrant colors that have stood the test of time. The prayer book's rich illustrations and ornate borders make it a valuable treasure, attracting the admiration of collectors and historians alike. Its journey through various owners, including the Rothschild family, adds to its mystique and allure, making it a truly remarkable piece of history.
6. The St. Cuthbert Gospel
The St. Cuthbert Gospel, an ancient and priceless artifact, stands as one of the oldest European books in existence. Dating back to the 7th century, this remarkable piece of history was buried with St. Cuthbert and rediscovered in 1104. The book's exquisite craftsmanship and well-preserved condition make it a significant treasure, not just for its religious content, but also for its historical and cultural value. Its leather binding, detailed artwork, and Latin text reflect the meticulous work of early medieval artisans, capturing a glimpse into the artistry and devotion of the period.
7. Shakespeare's First Folio
Shakespeare's First Folio, published in 1623, is one of the most sought-after literary treasures. This collection of 36 of Shakespeare's plays, compiled by his friends and fellow actors John Heminges and Henry Condell, includes some of the playwright's most famous works, such as "Hamlet" and "Macbeth." With only around 230 copies known to exist, the First Folio is not just a cornerstone of English literature but also a testament to the enduring legacy of Shakespeare's genius. Its rarity and historical significance make it a prized possession for collectors and institutions alike.
8. The Gutenberg Bible
The Gutenberg Bible, printed in the 1450s by Johannes Gutenberg, is a masterpiece that revolutionized the world of printing. Known for its exquisite craftsmanship, this rare book was among the first major books printed using movable type, marking the beginning of the mass production of books. Its significance in history, coupled with its beautiful typography and high-quality paper, makes it an invaluable treasure. Today, complete copies of the Gutenberg Bible are extremely rare, with only 48 known to exist, and are highly sought after by collectors and institutions alike.
9. The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer
One of the priciest literary treasures is "The Canterbury Tales" by Geoffrey Chaucer. This medieval masterpiece, a cornerstone of English literature, features a vivid collection of stories narrated by pilgrims on their way to Canterbury. The original manuscripts and early printed editions are incredibly valuable, not just for their age but for their significant influence on literature and language. Often found at exclusive book auctions, each tale offers a rich glimpse into the life and culture of the 14th century, making it a coveted piece for collectors and historians alike.
10. The Book of Mormon Printer's Manuscript
One of the rarest and most valuable books is the Book of Mormon Printer's Manuscript, a treasured document with immense historical significance. This manuscript, created in the early 19th century, is a crucial piece of religious history, containing the original handwritten text used to print the first edition of the Book of Mormon. Its importance to the Latter-day Saint movement and its rarity make it a highly sought-after artifact, reflecting the dedication and efforts of its early followers. The manuscript was purchased by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for a staggering $35 million, highlighting its profound value and enduring legacy.
11. The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K. Rowling
The Tales of Beedle the Bard" by J.K. Rowling stands out not just for its enchanting stories but also for its extraordinary value. Originally handwritten and illustrated by Rowling herself, only seven copies of this magical book exist, each bound in Moroccan leather and adorned with semi-precious stones. In 2007, one of these rare editions was sold at auction for an astounding $3.98 million, with proceeds benefiting Rowling's charity, Lumos. This incredible sale price highlights the book's significance and the enduring appeal of Rowling's work among collectors and fans alike.
12. On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres by Nicolaus Copernicus
Nicolaus Copernicus' "On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres" is a landmark work in the history of science that revolutionized our understanding of the universe. Published in 1543, this groundbreaking book introduced the heliocentric model, which placed the Sun, rather than the Earth, at the center of the solar system. This radical shift challenged centuries of astronomical thought and laid the foundation for modern astronomy. Today, original copies of this significant work are considered invaluable, not only for their scientific importance but also for their rarity and historical impact.
13. The Magna Carta
One of the rarest and most valuable books ever is the Magna Carta, a historic document signed in 1215 that laid the foundation for modern democracy and legal systems. This ancient manuscript, originally issued by King John of England, has become a symbol of liberty and the rule of law. With only a few surviving copies, it is highly prized by collectors and institutions alike. Its significance extends beyond its physical form, representing centuries of legal evolution and the enduring fight for human rights.
14. The Northumberland Bestiary
The Northumberland Bestiary, an exquisite medieval manuscript, stands out as a remarkable example of early Christian art and zoological knowledge. Created in the late 13th century, this richly illustrated book contains detailed depictions of both real and mythical animals, accompanied by moral tales and religious symbolism. The intricate illustrations and lavish use of gold leaf highlight the exceptional craftsmanship of its creators. Preserved through centuries, the Northumberland Bestiary not only offers a glimpse into medieval beliefs and artistry but also represents a significant cultural artifact treasured by historians and collectors alike. This remarkable manuscript is often featured in expensive book listings, showcasing its enduring value and importance.
15. The Foucault Pendulum by Umberto Eco
Umberto Eco's "The Foucault Pendulum" is a masterpiece that has captivated readers with its intricate plot and profound themes. First published in 1988, this novel weaves a complex narrative involving conspiracy theories, secret societies, and the interplay of history and fiction. Its rarity and demand among collectors have elevated it to a prized status, with special editions and signed copies fetching high prices at auctions. The book's unique blend of intellectual challenge and literary craftsmanship makes it a standout in the world of rare and valuable books.
16. The Birds of the British Isles by John Gould
John Gould's "The Birds of the British Isles" is a remarkable work that stands out in the world of rare and valuable books. Published in the 19th century, this comprehensive ornithological masterpiece is renowned for its exquisite illustrations and detailed descriptions of British bird species. Gould's meticulous work not only showcases the beauty of these birds but also reflects the dedication and expertise required to produce such a significant scientific and artistic achievement. This book's value lies not only in its rarity but also in its contribution to the field of ornithology and natural history.
17. The Bible by Johannes Gutenberg
Johannes Gutenberg's Bible, printed in the mid-15th century, stands as a monumental achievement in the history of printing and literature. This extraordinary book, one of the earliest major books printed using movable type, revolutionized the way knowledge was disseminated and preserved. Its creation marked the beginning of the Gutenberg Revolution and the age of the printed book, making it an invaluable artifact of cultural and historical significance. Today, the Gutenberg Bible is not only a symbol of technological progress but also a cherished treasure among collectors and historians, reflecting the profound impact it had on society.
18. The Book of Kells
The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript Gospel book in Latin, containing the four Gospels of the New Testament. Created by Celtic monks around 800 AD, this masterpiece is renowned for its lavish decoration, intricate designs, and vibrant colors. The book's detailed illustrations and ornate calligraphy reflect a blend of Christian iconography and Insular art, making it one of the greatest achievements in medieval European art. Housed at Trinity College in Dublin, the Book of Kells remains a testament to the skill and devotion of the monks who produced it, drawing admiration from historians, artists, and bibliophiles alike.
19. The Diamond Sutra
The Diamond Sutra, an ancient Buddhist text, holds the distinction of being the world's oldest dated printed book. Originating from the Tang Dynasty in 868 AD, this remarkable work was discovered in the early 20th century in a sealed cave in China. Its historical significance and the intricate woodblock printing make it an invaluable piece of cultural heritage. Preserved in the British Library, the Diamond Sutra not only offers profound spiritual insights but also stands as a testament to early printing technology and the enduring power of the written word.
20. The Hours of Jeanne d'Evreux
The Hours of Jeanne d'Evreux, created in the early 14th century, is a masterpiece of Gothic manuscript illumination. Commissioned for the French queen Jeanne d'Evreux, this small prayer book is renowned for its intricate illustrations and delicate use of gold leaf. Crafted by the celebrated artist Jean Pucelle, the manuscript stands as a testament to medieval artistry and devotion. Its exquisite detail and historical significance make it one of the rare and valuable books highly sought after by collectors, reflecting the cultural and religious values of its time.
This may not be an ancient book by any means but it's a book that deserves to be on this list for sure. If you’re a Harry Potter fan then you may find the title of this book rings a bell and you've heard it being referenced in Deathly Hallows but if you’re a die-hard Potterhead then you may know that this book exists in the real world and J.K Rowling only made seven copies in total and each one of them were handwritten and illustrated by her.
The book was eventually turned into paperback for everyone to read but the original 7 copies became a valuable prize. She went on to gift 6 of the copies to friends and editors and then in 2007 the 7th copy was put up for auction to raise funds for her charity The Children’s Voice campaign, Lumos.
The prized possession was nabbed up at the auction by Amazon for a whopping $3.98 million and broke a new world record for the most expensive modern manuscript to be sold at an auction.
