First edition, first printing of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince signed by Rowling on the title page in blue ink. This copy was presented as a prize in the year of publication and is accompanied by contemporary newspaper provenance.
A remarkable signed copy of one of the most difficult signed Harry Potter titles to acquire on the market today. Unlike earlier titles in the series, Half-Blood Prince was published at a time when opportunities to obtain signed copies had become exceptionally limited. Aside from approximately seventy children who received signed copies during the official midnight launch celebrations in Edinburgh on 16 July 2005, only a relatively small number of additional signed copies were made available by Rowling’s office, typically in connection with charitable causes and other special occasions such as this.
This particular copy was awarded in 2005 to nine-year-old Joseph Denton of Dorchester Primary School, who was the overall winner of a competition organised by the Bransholme Domestic Violence Forum in Hull. Around 300 pupils from five primary schools took part in the initiative, creating posters intended to raise awareness of domestic abuse.
The nature of the competition gives the book an especially distinctive provenance as part of a community initiative addressing a serious social issue. The accompanying contemporary newspaper clipping documents both the competition and Joseph’s award, establishing a direct link between the book and its original recipient.
An unread copy with fresh pages and boards. There is a small bump to the lower end of the spine; otherwise, the book remains in fine condition. The dust jacket is also in near-fine condition.
Accompanied by a handwritten note from Joseph Denton and a Letter of Authenticity (LoA) issued by Adam Houston (The Harry Potter Specialist), widely recognised as the world’s leading specialist in J.K. Rowling’s signature. Presented in a custom-made half-leather clamshell box for long-term preservation and display.
A scarce opportunity to acquire one of the most elusive signed Harry Potter titles, further distinguished by its documented contemporary provenance and its connection to a cause long associated with Rowling’s charitable work.
