Books

London: Ward, Lock and Co, 1888. First edition, second printing. First edition in book form of the first Sherlock Holmes story (preceded only by the story’s appearance in Beeton’s Christmas Annual 1887). Second impression with mis-spelling “youuger” for younger in the second paragraph of the publishers’ preface. A fine copy. Octavo (7 1/4 x 4 3/4 inches; 185 x 121 mm.). [iii] title; [iv] blank; [v] publisher’s preface (with paragraph 2, line 3: youuger); [vi] blank; [vii] contents; [viii] blank [1]- [169]; [170] blank; advertisements; [171- 182] pp. With six line drawings within the text by Charles Doyle, the author’s father, on pp. 32, 57, 64, 98, 124, 158. The title-page has been very neatly repaired at the edges and pp. 75-78 with very slight fore marginal loss not affecting text. Bound without the leaf of advertisements preceding the title-page and the last leaf of advertisements at the end (pp. 183/4). Handsomely rebound in late nineteenth century style full red…

A Study in Scarlet is a detective mystery novel written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, featuring his popular character Sherlock Holmes. It is the first work of fiction to feature Holmes and Dr. Watson, who would become one of the most famous detective duos in literature. The novel was first published in Beeton's Christmas Annual in 1887 and marks the first appearance of Sherlock Holmes.

One way to determine if a copy of 'A Study in Scarlet' is a first edition is by checking the publisher's information and comparing it with known first edition characteristics such as the binding, typography, and any dated inscription or advertisements relevant to the period.