Rare Harry Potter first edition may fetch thousands at auction

A rare Harry Potter book that was anonymously donated to a charity shop may fetch up to £10,000 at auction.

The first edition copy of The Philosopher's Stone was given to an RSPCA shop in the Isle of Wight.

It is now due to go under the hammer at Hanson's Auctioneers salesroom in Bishton Hall, Staffordshire.

Funds from the sale will go towards the charity's Isle of Wight branch, with a dog named Harry among the beneficiaries.

Rebecca Busby, from the branch, said: "We are sure Harry will help his namesake, Harry the dog, find his magical home and enjoy an amazing new chapter in his life."

The 11 month-old cockapoo-type, had found himself in the care of the branch following a change in his owner's circumstances.

Books expert Jim Spencer, from Staffordshire, assessed the copy and found it to be in an "exceptional" condition, valuing it in the region of between £7,000 and £10,000.

He said it would be "very difficult" to find another copy of the book that has been so "well-preserved".

"The only minor flaws were a "couple of lightly folded corners" and "the usual light browning" to page edges, he added.

"This deserves to fly, especially for such a great cause," Mr Spencer said, referring to the sale on 26 February.

"I hope collectors are generous with their bids and help the RSPCA, who do an amazing job caring for animals on the Isle of Wight."

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