May 7, 2024
First Edition Book of Mormon : Astonishing Rise in Value
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As an ABAA rare book dealer with a passion for historical treasures, I’m actively seeking early pre-1850 editions of the Book of Mormon and other Mormon-related and early Utah and Salt Lake City materials. Please contact me at webuyrarebooks@gmail.com or text photos to 646-469-1851. Let’s explore two noteworthy auction records that highlight the increasing value of the Book of Mormon over time (records redacted from the RareBookHub.com database)
- Auction Record 1:
- Source Record Number: VESPUCCI-79
- Description: This 1830 first edition of The Book of Mormon lacks the index issued after its publication but retains its testimonial leaf at the end. Despite some stains and wear, it remains historically significant. Bound in contemporary sheep, this 8vo edition was printed in Palmyra by E. B. Grandin.
- Price: Sold for GBP 26 in 1957
- Auction Record 2:
- Source Record Number: 523-24
- Title: The Book of Mormon: An Account Written by the Hand of Mormon, upon Plates Taken from the Plates of Nephi.
- Description: This 1830 first edition of The Book of Mormon, printed in Palmyra, is a prized artifact. It lists Joseph Smith as the “author and proprietor” and includes a 2-page preface. With numerous textual variations, very few identical copies exist. This copy includes unique textual variations and lacks the index pages found in later copies.
- Price: Sold for USD 120,000 in 2023
These auction records vividly demonstrate the Book of Mormon’s remarkable journey from modest beginnings to highly prized collectible. If you possess early pre-1850 editions of the Book of Mormon or other Mormon-related materials and are considering selling, please reach out to me. As an ABAA rare book dealer, I am committed to preserving these invaluable pieces of history and placing them in collections and Institutions.
