First UK edition, first printing of The Tales of Beedle the Bard, with an authentic J.K. Rowling-signed Beedle the Bard bookplate affixed to the half-title page. These specially produced bookplates originated from Bloomsbury and were distributed to only a select few individuals.
Authentically signed copies of this title are exceptionally rare. According to J.K. Rowling signature expert Adam Houston of The Harry Potter Specialist, nearly all purportedly signed copies of The Tales of Beedle the Bard offered online are counterfeit. Approximately 200–250 copies were signed by J.K. Rowling during the publication-day Tea Party held at the National Library of Scotland on 4 December 2008. In addition some first editions were issued with this special bookplate bearing Rowling's original signature together with her authentication hologram. As a result, these signed bookplates rank among the rarest officially distributed J.K. Rowling signed bookplates.
The signature has been fully authenticated by J.K. Rowling signature expert Adam Houston of The Harry Potter Specialist. Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity. Housed in a custom-made, exquisitely crafted half-leather clamshell box, providing both elegant presentation and long-term archival protection.
