Britannic Auctions sold a first edition, first printing of Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises in 2021 for $14,739. This sought-after copy included its original first-issue dust jacket, a major factor contributing to its high value. Published by Charles Scribner's Sons in 1926, this novel was Hemingway's debut and remains a cornerstone of modern American literature.
Features of The Sun Also Rises First Edition
The first edition of The Sun Also Rises is highly collectible, especially when accompanied by its first-issue dust jacket. Identifying characteristics of the first edition include:
- Publication Details: Scribner's "A" and colophon on the copyright page.
- Textual Errors: First printing errors, such as "stoppped" (p.181, line 26) and "Down-staris" (p.169).
- Dust Jacket Details: The first-issue dust jacket lists "In Our Times" on the front flap—a typographical error that upset Hemingway. Original dust jackets are extremely rare and significantly increase a copy's value.
Facsimile dust jackets are commonly paired with first editions in the market today, as original jackets are both rare and expensive. A facsimile dust jacket can typically be acquired for around $25, but collectors value authentic first-issue dust jackets far more highly.
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Historical Sales of The Sun Also Rises First Editions
The most expensive copy of The Sun Also Rises sold at auction fetched $366,400 in 2004. This first edition, first issue was inscribed by Hemingway to the doctor who delivered his children. The long inscription referenced the writing of the book in 1925 and discussed the dust jacket design. The copy also included its original first-issue dust jacket, which added another layer of value in its record-breaking price.
Other auction comparables:
- Christie’s (1994): A presentation copy inscribed by Hemingway with the original dust jacket sold for $11,500.
- New England Book Auctions (2005): A first edition, first issue in a first-issue dust jacket sold for $18,700.
- Britannic Auctions (2021): Sold for $14,739, highlighting the consistent demand for this title.
Collectors should note that first editions without the original dust jacket are significantly more affordable, typically ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on condition.
Why Collectors Value The Sun Also Rises First Editions
The Sun Also Rises is Hemingway’s first novel and a cornerstone of his career. It showcases his mastery of modernist prose. The story draws on his personal experiences in Paris and Spain. It explores themes of disillusionment and the search for meaning in a post-World War I world. This debut paved the way for later classics like A Farewell to Arms and The Old Man and the Sea, both of which cemented Hemingway’s reputation as one of the most celebrated American writers of the 20th century.
First edition copies of The Sun Also Rises are highly prized by collectors. This is especially true for those with original dust jackets or inscriptions. Key factors contributing to their value include:
- Literary Significance: This book represents a landmark in 20th-century American literature and introduces themes that Hemingway revisited in works like The Old Man and the Sea.
- Scarcity of Original Dust Jackets: The first-issue dust jacket is rare and plays a key role in determining a copy’s value. This scarcity mirrors the collectibility of other first editions like A Farewell to Arms.
- Historical Context: The Sun Also Rises marks Hemingway’s emergence as a leading voice in modern literature, setting the foundation for his later masterpieces.
Get a Free Appraisal for First Editions of Hemingway's Works
If you own a first edition of The Sun Also Rises or any other Ernest Hemingway novel, Britannic Auctions offers free appraisals. We specialize in connecting rare books with passionate collectors. Whether you have a pristine copy with an original dust jacket, we can provide a valuation and help you sell it at auction.
Visit our first edition books consignment page today to learn more about selling your Hemingway books or other literary treasures.
