Looking after Modern First Editions

At Forum Auctions, 'Modern First Editions' tends to refer to creative literature (i.e. fiction, poetry, drama) written in the 20th and 21st century, but does also include some authors with works published in the 19th century. This includes writers at the spearhead of literary modernism, such as Joseph Conrad, and well-known authors associated more with genre fiction, such as Arthur Conan Doyle and H.G. Wells.

The key features to look for in Modern First Editions for determining value are relative rarity, condition, literary & cultural significance and, where applicable, association and/or provenance. Rarity is not always easy to establish, often requiring a variety of online & offline tools including auction records and institutional holdings. It is also further complicated by various aspects of many Modern First Editions that can indicate whether the book in question is the true first issue or state. Fortunately our specialists are on hand to assist you with correctly identifying any such issues, and probable value at auction, of any Modern First Editions you may have, as well as advising on the impact of your book's current condition on the potential saleability. Books signed or inscribed by the authors or other noteworthy individuals will of course have enhanced value to collectors, and our team will be able to advise you both on the authenticity and subsequent value thereof.