Fine Printed Books & Manuscripts, Including Americana

Freeman's Auctions - Chicago Sale #6426: This fall, we are pleased to offer, within this various-owner sale, several single-owner sessions, beginning with the collection of noted Seattle collector Thurston Roach (lots 1–71). Over the past 30 years, Thurston assembled one of the world’s finest Faulkner collections, which includes the complete bibliography of William Faulkner’s works—a first of its kind at auction—as well as significant works by other major modern authors such as Twain, Steinbeck, Remarque, Milne, and others. Thurston passed away in 2024, and his family is honoring his wishes by offering his beloved books to other discerning collectors.

The next single-owner session in the sale features Part One of the W. Somerset Maugham Collection of Craig V. Showalter. Mr. Showalter is one of the world’s foremost Maugham collectors and has assembled one of the finest and most comprehensive libraries of Maugham’s works. Highlights include the dedication copy of Maugham’s first book and a presentation copy of his masterpiece, Of Human Bondage, in the exceedingly rare dust jacket—one of only four known copies.

Lastly, selections from Richard Flaherty’s Shakespeare library will be offered, including a copy of the rare Third Folio, previously unknown to the Shakespeare Folio census. Other highlights include the first printed Shakespeare work of any kind in America, the first illustrated edition of Shakespeare’s Works, and a selection of leaves from various Folio editions, rounded out with several sets of the Bard’s plays—perfect for any library shelf.

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