Debut First Edition of Ian Fleming’s ‘Casino Royale’ up for Auction, Unveiling the Genesis of James Bond. Scarce FIRST EDITION/SECOND IMPRESSION to be Auctioned on April 13, 2024, at 10:00 AM MST via Invaluable.com
Phoenix, Arizona | April 6, 2024 — An opportunity awaits James Bond fans and first edition collectors as Britannic Auctions presents the debut first edition of Ian Fleming’s ‘Casino Royale’ at their live, online-only auction on Saturday, April 13, 2024, starting at 10:00 AM MST. The auction will be hosted exclusively on Invaluable, offering enthusiasts the chance to acquire a piece of 007 history.
Ian Fleming’s ‘Casino Royale’ is not just a novel; it’s the birth of a cultural icon. Published in 1953, this masterpiece marked the inception of James Bond, the suave and sophisticated British Secret Service agent, known by his code number, 007. Drawing from his own experiences in espionage during World War II, Fleming infused authenticity into Bond’s adventures, captivating readers then and now.
Despite modest initial sales, ‘Casino Royale’ gained traction through word-of-mouth praise, eventually becoming a bestseller. The novel not only launched Fleming’s career as a prolific author but also solidified Bond as a symbol of intrigue and sophistication.
This copy is presented in its original, unclipped dust jacket in VERY GOOD/NEAR FINE condition, with price of “10. 6d. Net”.. Expert restoration has been performed to the head, foot and panel edges of dust jacket spine. The iconic artwork in a very pleasing and vibrant state.
Also included with the book are a collection of three original casino chips / plaques from the luxurious Le Cercle Club / Les Ambassadeurs Casino, featured in “Dr. No”.
In one of the most famous scenes in cinema history, Sean Connery utters the line, “Bond. James Bond” while playing Baccarat chemin-de-fer at Les Ambassadeurs Club in London (a scene that was actually filmed on a set.) Strewn across the table in this scene are a number of colorful tiles used in the game.
Offered in this lot are three such plaques, a £10 plaque (pink, #0753), a £5 plaque (blue, #0698), and a £1 chip (red, #0327). Although not screen-used, the stamped serial numbers on these pieces align with the numerous genuine plaques loaned by the club to the studio for the 1962 production of “Dr. No.”
This film marked the inception of one of the most significant film franchises in history.
AUCTION DETAILS:
Date: Saturday, April 13, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM MST
Location: Online Only, via Invaluable
Auction House: Britannic Auctions
CONTACT & AUCTION INFORMATION:
For further information or inquiries about the auction, please contact Britannic Auctions at [email protected] or (888) 343-5320. https://britannicauctions.com