In 2021, Britannic Auctions sold a nearly complete set of The Poets of Great Britain, Complete from Chaucer to Churchill for $1,000. This landmark collection, published by John Bell publisher in the late 18th century, helped define literary accessibility. Printed in Edinburgh by the Martin Brothers for Bell’s Apollo Press, it remains a cornerstone of English literature collecting.
This particular set contained 108 of the 109 volumes, missing only Volume 9 of Chaucer. John Bell publisher of this collection ensured a consistent format and quality. Most volumes were first editions, printed between 1778 and 1784. However, some later editions, extending as late as 1803, were included.
For collectors, this near-complete example embodies Bell’s ambition: an affordable, beautifully bound library showcasing Britain’s greatest poets.
The Poets of Great Britain: John Bell & the Martin Brothers
John Bell (1745–1831) changed the way people collected books. He believed literature should be affordable, well-designed, and accessible to everyone—not just the elite. As a London-based bookseller, John Bell publisher of The Poets of Great Britain, collaborated with the Martin Brothers, renowned Edinburgh printers, to bring this ambitious series to life.
Bell aimed to create a uniform, affordable poetry collection featuring Chaucer, Shakespeare, Milton, Pope, and Churchill. His Poets of Great Britain series was a game-changer—a pocket-sized set that made carrying an entire library possible. He even revolutionized book typography, swapping out the old-fashioned long “s” (ſ) for the modern short “s.” That seemingly small change influenced book design for generations.
The Martin Brothers played a key role in producing these finely printed volumes at their Apollo Press in Edinburgh. Their commitment to craftsmanship ensured that Bell’s vision became a reality. The result? One of the most significant and collectible poetry sets of the 18th century.
Auction Values & Market Demand
Even though The Poets of Great Britain was widely printed in the 18th century, complete sets remain highly collectible today. Condition, completeness, and the presence of original bindings or storage cases can significantly impact auction values.
Here are a few notable results that show just how dramatically prices can vary:
- Freeman’s (2020) – $30,000: A first-edition, complete 109-volume set, still housed in its original traveling library cases, designed to look like four folio volumes. This set, in exceptional condition, fetched one of the highest auction prices recorded.
- Swann Galleries (2010) – $3,120: A near-complete 109-volume set, missing some engravings, still attracted strong interest from collectors.
- Bonhams (2022) – Approx. $1,500 USD (GBP 1,211): A 109-volume set sold in the UK, proving that demand for The Poets of Great Britain remains steady—even when sets vary in completeness and condition.
Discover, Collect, and Consign with Britannic Auctions
Are you a collector searching for historically significant literary works? Or are you considering consigning your antique books? Britannic Auctions can help. Sign up for our mailing list to get alerts on upcoming online auctions. Need a free valuation? Contact us today!
