The world of literature is constantly evolving, with new books being published every day. However, there are some books that stand out from the rest, not only because of their content but also because of their price. We were curious to find out what are the most expensive paperback and hardcover books currently available on the market. After extensive research, we have compiled a list of the top 15+ most expensive books that you can actually buy on Amazon.
1. “The Birds of America” by John James Audubon – $11.5 million
This stunning book is a collection of 435 hand-colored illustrations of birds, measuring 39.5 inches by 28.5 inches. It was first published in the 19th century and is considered one of the greatest works of American ornithology.
2. “The Gospels of Henry the Lion” – $11.7 million
This book is a masterpiece of medieval art, created in the 12th century by the monks of Helmarshausen Abbey. It contains four gospels, each adorned with intricate illustrations and gold leaf.
3. “The Rothschild Prayerbook” – $13.4 million
This book is a luxurious prayer book, commissioned by a wealthy French nobleman in the 16th century. It is adorned with exquisite illustrations and gold leaf, making it a true work of art.
4. “The Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer – $18 million
Considered one of the most important works of English literature, this book was published in the 15th century and contains 24 hand-painted illustrations. It is a rare and valuable piece of history.
5. “The First Atlas” by Gerardus Mercator – $20 million
This book is a collection of maps and charts, created by the famous cartographer Gerardus Mercator in the 16th century. It is a significant piece of cartographic history and is highly sought after by collectors.
6. “The Codex Leicester” by Leonardo da Vinci – $30.8 million
This book is a collection of scientific writings and sketches by the renowned artist and inventor, Leonardo da Vinci. It is considered one of the most valuable manuscripts in the world.
7. “The Bay Psalm Book” – $33 million
This book is the first book ever printed in America, dating back to 1640. It is a rare and valuable piece of American history, making it a highly sought after item for collectors.
8. “The St. Cuthbert Gospel” – $14.3 million
This book is a pocket-sized copy of the Gospel of St. John, dating back to the 7th century. It is the oldest intact European book and is considered a national treasure in the UK.
9. “The Gutenberg Bible” – $4.9 million
This book is the first book ever printed using movable type, created by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century. It is a significant piece of printing history and is highly valued by collectors.
10. “The Tales of Beedle the Bard” by J.K. Rowling – $3.98 million
This book is a collection of fairy tales from the wizarding world of Harry Potter, written and illustrated by the author herself. It is a must-have for any Harry Potter fan and is a valuable addition to any book collection.
11. “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien – $210,000
This book is a first edition copy of the beloved fantasy novel, published in 1937. It is a rare and valuable item for any Tolkien fan and is highly sought after by collectors.
12. “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald – $182,000
This book is a first edition copy of the classic American novel, published in 1925. It is a rare and valuable item for any literature lover and is highly sought after by collectors.
13. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee – $180,000
This book is a first edition copy of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, published in 1960. It is a rare and valuable item for any literature lover and is highly sought after by collectors.
14. “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger – $180,000
This book is a first edition copy of the iconic coming-of-age novel, published in 1951. It