A rare pre-publication first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, inscribed by J.K. Rowling to friends Deirdre and Gerry, is up for sale at Sotheby’s with an estimated price of 100,000 to 150,000 pounds.

The copy is in good condition and is among a very small number of pre-publication inscriptions known to exist, boosting its rarity and value.

More than 120 million copies have been sold to date, highlighting the franchise’s enduring appeal and collector interest.

The auction is set for December 11, with the broader Harry Potter market remaining strong and multiple related records cited from 2021 and 2024.

The inscription bears the date 11 June 1997 and notes Rowling referring to herself as You-Know-Who, a nod to Lord Voldemort, with the inscription listing her pen name Joanne Rowling.

Sotheby’s points out that such early inscriptions are extremely scarce and potentially market-leading, citing the British record for a first edition inscribed to siblings at 220,800 pounds (2022) and a world record price of 356,000 pounds paid in the U.S. for a similar item.

Around 500 first edition hardbacks were published in June 1997; roughly half went to schools and libraries, while the rest went to Rowling’s friends and contacts.

The edition shows minor printing quirks and pre-publication origins, which distinguish it from standard post-publication copies.