The world’s most expensive books
Books are not just vessels of knowledge and entertainment; they can also be rare artifacts, prized for their historical significance, age, and rarity. Some books have fetched astronomical prices at auctions, becoming coveted possessions for collectors and institutions alike.
As we launch our new Howden Book Exchange, we decided to delve into the realm of priceless pages. Each has a unique story and value. Without further ado, here’s some of the most expensive books in the world…
1. Codex Leicester – Leonardo da Vinci
Price: $30.8 million/£23.8 million
You’ll have heard of the Sistine Chapel and the Mona Lisa. But what about the Codex Leicester? Da Vinci’s collection of scientific writings is the most expensive book ever sold. Purchased by Bill Gates in 1994, this 72-page manuscript delves into topics ranging from astronomy to the properties of water. What makes the Codex Leicester so invaluable is its insight into the mind of one of history’s greatest geniuses, complete with detailed sketches and notes.
2. The Book of Mormon (Printer’s Manuscript)
Price: $35 million/£27.1 million
In 2017, a handwritten printer’s manuscript of the Book of Mormon was sold for a staggering $35 million to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This version, dating back to 1830, is one of the most significant religious texts in American history, and its sale marked one of the highest prices ever paid for a manuscript.
3. The Gospels of Henry the Lion
Price: $11.7 million/£9.1 million
Commissioned by Henry the Lion, Duke of Saxony, in the 12th century, the Gospels of Henry the Lion is an illuminated manuscript of the highest order. Sold at Sotheby’s in 1983 for $11.7 million, this book is a masterpiece of medieval art, containing 266 pages with intricate illustrations and Latin text, reflecting the Duke’s wealth and power.
4. The Magna Carta
Price: $21.3 million/£16.5 million
One of the most important legal documents in history, the Magna Carta, was sold for $21.3 million in 2007. This 1297 version of the document, signed by King Edward I, is one of only a few copies still in existence. The Magna Carta is a cornerstone of modern democracy, establishing the principle that everyone, including the king, is subject to the law.
5. St. Cuthbert Gospel
Price: $14.3 million/£11.1 million
The St. Cuthbert Gospel is the oldest intact European book, dating back to the 7th century. This Anglo-Saxon manuscript, written in Latin, was placed in the coffin of St. Cuthbert and rediscovered in 1104. The British Library purchased it in 2012 for $14.3 million, preserving this precious piece of early Christian history.
6. The Bay Psalm Book
Price: $14.2 million/£11 million
Printed in 1640, the Bay Psalm Book was the first book ever printed in what is now the United States. Only 11 copies are known to exist, and in 2013, one was sold at auction for $14.2 million. The book is a translation of the Psalms into English verse and is a remarkable artifact from early American history.
7. Rothschild Prayerbook
Price: $13.4 million/£10.3 million
The Rothschild Prayerbook is a stunning example of a Flemish illuminated manuscript. Created in the early 16th century, this book of hours is adorned with miniature paintings by some of the best artists of the time. It fetched $13.4 million at auction in 2014, making it one of the most expensive illuminated manuscripts ever sold.
8. The Birds of America, John James Audubon
Price: $11.5 million/£8.9 million
John James Audubon’s The Birds of America is not just a book – it’s a work of art. Published between 1827 and 1838, it contains life-sized illustrations of North American birds, many of which are now extinct. One of the few complete copies of this massive four-volume set was sold at auction for $11.5 million in 2010.
9. The Gutenberg Bible
Price: $5.4 million/£4.1 million (per volume)
The Gutenberg Bible is one of the most famous books in the world, as it was the first major book printed using movable type around 1455. Only 48 copies are known to exist, and individual pages have been sold for high prices. In 1987, a complete volume was sold for $5.4 million, setting a record at the time.
10. Shakespeare’s First Folio
Price: $9.98 million/£7.7 million
William Shakespeare’s First Folio, published in 1623, is one of the most valuable and significant works in English literature. It is the first collected edition of Shakespeare’s plays, and without it, many of his works might have been lost. A copy of the First Folio was sold for $9.98 million in 2020, underscoring its timeless value.
Join our book exchange
To celebrate the launch of our book exchange in branches, we’re giving away free children’s books this autumn! So, find your local branch and head in to see the team and collect your free book, while stocks last!
