irst UK edition, first printing of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, published by Bloomsbury on 2 July 1998. In his bibliography J.K. Rowling: A Bibliography (2018, p. 65), Philip W. Errington records Bloomsbury's statement that the first printing comprised only 706 copies. Subsequent research, however, has cast serious doubt on this figure, and it is now generally accepted among Harry Potter bibliographers and specialist collectors that the actual first printing was approximately 10,150 copies, making the published figure almost certainly erroneous.
The accompanying unclipped first-state dust jacket displays all of the required first-issue points on the front flap: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone is not italicised in paragraph 5; "Tom El-Shawk Age 11" appears without a comma after the surname and with a capital A in "Age"; Harry Potter is not italicised in paragraph 6; "Harry" is likewise not italicised later in the same paragraph; and "Katrina Farrant Age 10" appears without a comma after the surname and with a capital A in "Age".
The book is in near-pristine condition, with only a minuscule dent to the top edge of the front board preventing a pristine designation. The boards remain exceptionally bright, with sharp spine ends and corners. The binding is firm and square, while the pages are remarkably fresh and clean, showing virtually none of the usual age toning. Free from names, inscriptions, bookplates, or any other defects.
The first-state dust jacket is in fine condition, remaining bright and unfaded, with no tears, creases, or signs of wear. An exceptional example of one of the finest surviving copies of this increasingly sought-after first edition.
Housed in a custom-made, exquisitely crafted half-leather clamshell box, providing both elegant presentation and long-term archival protection.
