A Christmas Carol | 1843, first edition, signed with a tipped in note: "Believe me always"

A superb example of Dickens’s most enduring work and the book that shaped the modern Christmas. This is a true first edition, first issue, made all the more remarkable by the presence of a tipped in signed note from Dickens that reads “Believe me always.” It is an unusually touching sentiment to accompany a story centred on generosity and renewal and it lifts this copy into rarefied company.

Internally the book is in outstanding condition. The pages are clean, bright and notably fresh. It is the finest internal state I have handled.

Handsomely bound in full red morocco by Riviere and Son, the binding is elegant and crisp and sits beautifully with the vibrancy of the text. A sumptuous presentation in every respect.

All first issue points are present, including Stave I on the opening page and the title page printed in red and blue and dated 1843.

First edition, first issue, octavo (160 x 100 mm). Complete with the half title, all four hand coloured etchings including the frontispiece, and the two pages of advertisements at the rear. Bound in full red morocco gilt by Riviere and Son with gilt dentelles, all edges gilt and marbled endpapers. The spine shows only the slightest touch of fading and the overall presentation is luxurious and finely executed.

Most importantly, this copy carries a tipped in signed note by Dickens. A signature on A Christmas Carol is exceptionally scarce and the presence of a personal note transforms this from a desirable first edition into a genuine collector level prize. A beautiful and characterful copy of the book that defined the modern Christmas and one of the few enhanced by Dickens’s own hand.

Please note that this will be exhibited during my talks at Soho House (16th and 18th Dec) later this month. If purchased, this would be shipped on the 19th of December.