Darwin's Origin of the Species, first edition, original cover

A rare first edtion, first print run of Charles Darwin’s Origin of a Species has been auctioned off in Norfolk, England for £35,000. Only 1,250 copies of Darwin’s influential masterpiece were produced in that original print run in 1859, which sold out immedieately. According to a BBC News report, this one was in extrememly fine condition, still in its original cloth jacket.

Andrew Bullock, book specialist at Norfolk auctioneers Keys, says, “It is the most important biological book ever and one of those rare occasions when the white gloves really do go on before you pick it up and you handle it with reverence. It is a definitive work and what every serious bibliophile wants is a first edition, first issue copy and this is a must-have for the very best shelf.”