The Prince & the Pauper

A Tale for Young People of All Ages

Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens)

1882 -- Boston: James R. Osgood & Co.

Mark Twain's beloved first attempt at a historical novel, "The Prince & the Pauper" is a classic switcharoo. It's 1547, Tudor England, and soon-to-be-king Edward VI accidentally swaps places with a poor young boy named Tom who looks just like him.

This is a true 1882 First Edition from publisher James R. Osgood, printed by Franklin Press. The errors on pp 124, 263, & 363 have been corrected. Complete with its endpapers, 411 pages, and 192 illustrations, it's a joy to look through.

CONDITION

Binding is Fair to Good, textblock is Very Good or better, Antiquarian. Boards are still straight & strong, with bright gilt on cover. Edges and corners show significant shelfwear, particularly bottom edge, with some conservation work. Spine head & tail chipped, rear joint repaired, cloth split between title block and author, title block gilt worn but present.

Inside, the book is really nice. Aside from one small bookseller note in pen on front flyleaf, no other ink or stamps inside. No bookplates or crimps. No signatures or dedications. NOT ex-libris! Hinges nice (see photos). Textblock is complete, a couple gatherings slightly sprung but everything still holding tight. Paper stock is surprisingly bright & supple. Illustrations are lovely. A couple small closed tears throughout, a couple smudges and minor edge stains. No loss, nothing affecting text.

VALUATION

Not a lot of these come on the market, and many that do have pretty wild pricing. I love this one because it's a true first edition, but it's been worn-in enough that it's not precious. It's easy to open, read, enjoy, pass around, but still a presentable and fun copy. Good Luck & Happy Bidding!

411 pp

8 1/2" x 7"