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Today is World Book Day, and across the globe, readers, writers, and bibliophiles come together to honour the books that have shaped history, culture, and individual lives.
While most of us celebrate with our favourite novels, some books are in a league of their own. They are popular not just for their literary value but for their price tags. These books are priceless pieces of history. Here are the 10 most expensive books ever sold, and the fascinating stories behind them.
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1. Codex Sassoon – $38.1 Million
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Author: Unknown
Year: 9th century
Buyer: Donated to ANU Museum of the Jewish People (2023)
The Codex Sassoon, dating back to the 9th or 10th century, is the oldest nearly complete Hebrew Bible. In 2023, it was auctioned for a staggering $38.1 million, making it the most expensive book ever sold.
The buyer, American Friends of ANU—Museum of the Jewish People, acquired it through a donation from Alfred H. Moses, ensuring its preservation and public display. The Codex Sassoon holds immense religious and cultural significance.
2. The Book of Mormon (Printer’s Manuscript) – $35 Million
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Author: Joseph Smith
Year: 1830
Buyer: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (2017)
This is the handwritten original printer’s manuscript of the Book of Mormon. It is considered sacred by the Latter-day Saint community. It’s a pivotal piece of religious history and the most expensive religious manuscript ever sold. This 1830 manuscript is a foundational text for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 2017, the church purchased it for $35 million.
3. Codex Leicester – $30.8 Million
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Author: Leonardo da Vinci
Year: 1510
Buyer: Bill Gates (1994)
This 72-page manuscript is filled with da Vinci's scientific observations and sketches. It delves into topics like water movement and astronomy. Its unique mirror writing and the genius behind its creation make it a priceless artefact. In 1994, Bill Gates acquired it for $30.8 million, and it remains one of the most valuable manuscripts, offering insights into da Vinci's genius.
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4. The Magna Carta (Original) – $21.3 Million
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Author: King John of England
Year: 1215
Buyer: David Rubenstein (2007)
The Magna Carta laid the foundation for modern democratic law. One of only a few original copies in existence, this ancient legal document is considered one of the most important texts in Western history. It was sold in 2007 for $21.3 million to financier David Rubenstein. This document established the principle that everyone, including the king, is subject to the law
5. The Bay Psalm Book – $14.2 Million
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Author: Puritan settlers of Massachusetts
Year: 1640
Buyer: David Rubenstein (2013)
As the first book printed in British North America, it represents a significant piece of American history. In 2013, philanthropist David Rubenstein purchased a copy for $14.2 million. This humble hymnal holds enormous historical value as a symbol of early American faith and printing.
6. Rothschild Prayer Book – $13.6 Million
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Author: Various (Illuminated Manuscript)
Year: 1500
Buyer: Kerry Stokes (2014
This Renaissance-era illuminated manuscript is renowned for its intricate artwork and historical value. This exquisite 16th-century illuminated manuscript showcases the pinnacle of Renaissance artistry. In 2014, it was sold for $13.6 million.
The manuscript is filled with Christian prayers and detailed miniature illustrations. It’s one of the most exquisite examples of Flemish illumination ever produced.
7. The Gospels of Henry the Lion – $11.7 Million
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Author: Commissioned by Henry the Lion
Year: 12th century
Buyer: German Government & Museums (1983)
Commissioned in the 12th century by Henry the Lion, this gospel book is renowned for its Romanesque illumination. In 1983, it was acquired for $11.7 million by a consortium including the German government, preserving it as a national treasure.
This ornate religious manuscript reflects the wealth and devotion of Henry the Lion. It’s one of the finest examples of Romanesque book art.
8. Birds of America – $11.6 Million
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Author: John James Audubon
Year: 1827-1838
Buyer: The Duke of Portland’s Estate (2010)
John James Audubon's "Birds of America" is celebrated for its detailed, life-sized illustrations of birds. A copy sold in 2010 for $11.6 million. This monumental ornithological book contains 435 hand-painted life-sized bird illustrations. It’s prized not just for its artistry but for its contribution to natural science.
9. Shakespeare’s First Folio – $9.98 Million
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Author: William Shakespeare
Year: 1623
Buyer: Anonymous (2020)
This is the first collected edition of Shakespeare’s plays, published seven years after his death. It preserved many of his works that otherwise might have been lost to history. In 2020, a copy was sold for $9.98 million, reflecting its literary significance.
10. The Canterbury Tales – $7.5 Million
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Author: Geoffrey Chaucer
Year: 1477
Buyer: Anonymous (1998)
Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," printed in 1477, is a cornerstone of English literature. A rare first edition fetched $7.5 million in 1998, highlighting its enduring value. As one of the earliest major works in English literature, Chaucer’s classic holds immense literary and historical value. Only a few first editions are known to exist.