Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ — First Edition, 1880 Harper & Brothers

Wallace, Lewis

Published by Harper & Brothers, Franklin Square, New York, 1880

About this Item

FIRST Edition in publisher?s original dark blue cloth binding, gilt-decorated front board with radiant star motif and gilt lettering to spine. Cloth is well-preserved with expected vintage wear: rubbing to boards and edges, corners bumped, and fraying to crown and tail of spine. Slight fading to spine, though gilt remains clear and legible. Binding is sound. Pages clean, unmarked, and bright for age; remarkably well-preserved interior (Very Good+), with only light age toning. Gutter of rear endpapers beginning to show netting but remains strong. Top edge with publisher?s pale tint; minor marking to bottom edge. Lacks frontispiece (as some early Harper copies were issued). A handsome and early example of Harper & Brothers? 1880 first edition of this enduring classic.

Collector's Note:
A significant early example of one of the bestselling American novels of the 19th century. Harper?s 1880 first edition of Ben-Hur is increasingly scarce in original decorated cloth, especially with gilt still bright and interiors clean. Wallace?s epic narrative of faith, redemption, and Rome remains a cornerstone of Christian literature and a foundational work adapted into multiple landmark films. This copy represents an appealing specimen for collectors seeking an authentic early printing of America?s most influential religious novel.

Condition:
Interior: Very Good+ (clean, bright pages are strong for 1880); Exterior: Very Good- (due to fraying, shelf wear). Overall listing grade: Very Good-

Additional images gladly provided on request. Volume will be professionally wrapped, securely boxed, and fully insured for safe transit. Stored in a smoke-free environment. [Attributes: First Edition; Hard Cover].

Seller Inventory # 2024LW20F1880

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ ? First Edition, 1880 Harper & Brothers
• Publisher: Harper & Brothers, Franklin Square, New York
• Publication Date: 1880
• Language: English
• Binding: Hardcover, cloth
• Edition: First Edition.
• Condition: Very Good-
• Dust Jacket Condition: No Jacket
• Dimensions: 4.75W x 7H x 1.75D inches 4.75 inches width by 7 inches height by 1.75 inches depth
• Seller catalogs:
  • 19th Century Literature
  • Christianity
  • Books to Film