Books

IAN FLEMING - GOLDFINGER, published by Jonathan Cape, copyright 1959, First Printing First State ("First Impression 1959" at top of copyright page with no references to subsequent printings, front flap summary takes 1/2 of the flap & Dr. No reviews take 1/2 of the flap - the 2nd state DJ has a longer Goldfinger summary/reviews & shorter Dr. No reviews), list in front of book to "Dr. No", white endpapers, black boards with impress skull design and gold gilt coins for the skull's eyes and SILVER gilt lettering on spine, Richard Chopping illustrated DJ, 15s price on DJ front flap. NOTE - GILBERT'S FLEMING BIOGRAPHY NOTES THAT THE SILVER SPINE GILT LETTERING IS A KNOWN BUT VERY RARE VARIANT (IN MY NEARLY 25 YEARS OF DEALING IN FLEMING BOOKS THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I HAVE EVER SEEN GILT SILVER INK ON THE SPINE). Book has no creased page corners, no foxing to pages or endpapers or outer page edges, hint of age darkening/dust soiling to outer page edges, no former owner's markings or used book store stamps/stickers inside (original bookseller's tiny label at bottom gutter to inside front board), endpapers are clean with no scotch tape residue marks or other discoloration, no internal hinge splitting, no wear to board edges, corners, or spine tips (hint of shelf rubbing to spine tips), no spine lean, no bumped board corners, no soiling or markings to boards, gilt lettering on spine not worn or significantly oxidized. Dust Jacket has largish nick losses at left spinet tip corners and short closed tearing at bottom of spine with related creasing otherwise no chipping, tearing or creasing, wear to spine tips with 'v' losses to spine tip corners, wear to front flap crease (bit of loss to flap crease corners), slight wear to left/right on spine, hint of edge wear, NO SPINE SUN DARKENING (very common defect with this DJ), no age yellowing to DJ (another common defect because of light colors), no foxing to panels, even dust rubbing to panels/spine (another common defect with this light colored dj) otherwise no soiling or staining, no scotch tape residue marks to flaps. Overall a FINE-/N-FINE book in VG condition dust jacket (not price clipped) of an Ian Fleming U.K. first printing hardcover book in first state dust jacket. I have a number of other U.S. and U.K. Ian Fleming James Bond 1st printing hardcover appearances up for sale.

"Goldfinger" by Ian Fleming introduces James Bond, Agent 007, on a thrilling mission against the cunning and wealthy Auric Goldfinger, a notorious criminal involved in international gold smuggling. The story kicks off with Bond crossing paths with Goldfinger at a high-stakes game of gin rummy. Suspecting Goldfinger's involvement in illegal activities, Bond's curiosity is piqued, leading him to undertake a covert investigation. Bond soon discovers that Goldfinger's grand scheme involves manipulating the gold market and executing a massive heist at Fort Knox, aiming to contaminate the gold reserve and increase the value of his own holdings. As Bond delves deeper into Goldfinger's intricate plan, he encounters Oddjob, Goldfinger's formidable and lethal henchman, renowned for his steel-rimmed hat used as a deadly weapon. Bond's investigation takes him across continents, from Miami to Geneva and finally to Goldfinger's base of operations in England. Bond, armed with his quick wit, intelligence, and resourcefulness, attempts to thwart Goldfinger's plot. He engages in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse, facing danger, deception, and seduction while trying to outmaneuver the cunning villain. The novel features typical Bond elements—high-speed chases, intense action sequences, and Bond's encounters with glamorous women. However, it also delves into the complexities of international espionage and financial manipulation, highlighting the risks posed by individuals seeking to disrupt the world economy for personal gain. Ultimately, Bond confronts Goldfinger in a dramatic climax, facing off against him and Oddjob in a life-or-death struggle. Through his trademark charm, intelligence, and sheer determination, Bond manages to foil Goldfinger's plans, averting a catastrophe that could have devastated the global financial system. "Goldfinger" stands as a quintessential James Bond adventure, combining elements of espionage, thrilling action, and a captivating plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Ian Fleming's masterful storytelling, coupled with Bond's charismatic and daring persona, makes this novel a classic within the spy fiction genre, captivating audiences with its intrigue and excitement.