Firsts

The ABA’s flagship fair boasted a strong turnout, international interest and a younger audience

One of the wonderful things about the Firsts London fair is the range of material on offer to browse and buy from rooms full of dealers who are happy to chat and impart their knowledge about the items they are offering for sale.

Ahead of a very busy period for the trade, we kick off our guide to the events coming up with a London fair marking the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence.

Ian Fleming’s scions will be at Firsts London book fair this year, as they continue to play an important part in both promoting their relative’s books and book collecting as a whole.

Event generates decent sales and a lively atmosphere during a busy weekend overall for collectors and dealers

Books fair 'Firsts' got under way on May 15 with around 100 dealers exhibiting at the Saatchi Gallery in London.

It took 16 years to compile the first great German florilegium, an edition of which can be seen – and purchased – at the Firsts London book fair running from May 15-18 at the Saatchi Gallery.

Our look ahead at fairs coming up in the capital, including the Firsts and PBFA events held a short hop apart on the same weekend

Inscriptions and annotations can make a massive difference to value

It’s probably no surprise that, even in the days of digital first, printed catalogues are still loved by rare book collectors.

An 18th century folio bible in mosaic binding was among the notable sales at the recent Firsts: London’s Rare Book Fair.

A book elaborately illustrated with needle-work samples and commemorating Queen Victoria’s first trip to Ireland as monarch was one of the standout sales as 'Firsts London’s Rare Book Fair' opened.

A wide range of dealers are set to offer a variety of items at upcoming fairs

London dealership AntikBar brings a major collection of pieces relating to Intourist, the 20th century USSR travel company, to 'Firsts London' book fair.