Collectables

“Congress have judged it necessary to dissolve all Connection between Great Britain, and the American Colonies; and to declare them free and independent States…”

Stand-out lots on offer in upcoming summer auctions and from dealers.

Our regular listing of UK and Irish book auctions.

By 1920, as a new era of aero-engined racing cars threatened to break the 100mph barrier, the emerging sport of motor racing required better and more precise time-keeping.

Recently found in a Norfolk attic, a full set of Canadian scenes by the military artist and topographical draughtsman Major General James Pattison Cockburn (1779-1847) sold for £130,000 at Forum Auctions (plus 25% buyer’s premium).

Our regular listing of UK and Irish book auctions.

With Wimbledon on the way at the end of the month we look at options for memorabilia

Just one other example of Mary Shelley’s famous tale has made more at auction

Maps and views of San Francisco were among the principal attractions of an April 21 sale held by local auction house PBA Galleries (25/20% buyer’s premium) to disperse the first portion of the Charles Fraccia Collection.

A pair of revolvers presented to American Civil War general and later US president Ulysses S Grant soldfor $4.4m (£3.61m) or $5.17m with premium.

This pair of Mickey and Minnie Mouse toys has been on quite an adventure.

For 19th century sahibs in tiger country and bwanas dealing with charging lions, howdah pistols like the one offered at West Sussex gun specialist Gavin Gardiner (25% buyer’s premium) were the preferred sidearm.

Copy printed in Boston in 1744 and now offered in Chicago was defective but a real rarity

A children’s book estimated at £20-40 in a May 14 sale held by Pippa Deeley (15% buyer’s premium) in Bodiam, East Sussex, was sold instead at £2200.

Throughout the 20th century toy manufacturers produced commemorative models, with the coronation coach a particularly popular subject.

An inscribed copy of F Scott Fitzgerald’s 'The Great Gatsby' was the most expensive purchase in a held by Potter & Potter (20% buyer’s premium).

Steve Nutt runs Windsor Rare Books and exhibits at IACF and Etc Fairs. He is on AbeBooks and on Instagram @windsorrarebooks

Our regular listing of UK and Irish book auctions.