Harry Potter First Edition - Gifted To RSPCA Isle Of Wight Charity Shop - Raises Thousands For Animals

A scarce Harry Potter first edition given to an RSPCA charity shop has raised thousands of pounds for the animal charity.

The book, given by a mystery donor to the RSPCA Isle of Wight Branch, sold for a hammer price of £7,500 at Hansons Auctioneers today (Monday).

All funds raised will directly go towards helping animals in the charity’s care, now and in the future.

Rebecca Busby, fundraising, marketing and engagement officer at the RSPCA Isle of Wight Branch, said:

“The book was gifted to one of our charity shops as a possible first edition.

"One of our volunteers, who is an avid Harry Potter fan and book enthusiast, checked for all the well known markers and noticed it had them all.

“She called me and I could hear her excitement as she said 'I can't believe it we have a Harry Potter first edition, it's in the best condition I have ever seen.'"

One of the dogs set to benefit is another Harry, an 11-month-old cockapoo-type, who found himself in the care of the branch following his owners’ change in circumstances which meant they were unable to look after him.

When the book was discovered the RSPCA Isle of Wight team called in Jim Spencer, a world-renowned Potter books expert based at Hansons Auctioneers’ Staffordshire saleroom Bishton Hall.

Jim said:

“It would have been very difficult to find another copy as well-preserved as this one.

"It deserved to set tails wagging at auction. I am delighted it’s raised thousands for such a great cause."

Rebecca added:

“We currently have over 50 pets in our care - including dogs, cats and rabbits - and due to the cost of living crisis we, like many animal charities, are struggling.

“Over the past decade our branch has helped rehome 4,126 pets and we are confident this donation will help us rehome many more, as the RSPCA celebrates its 200th birthday this year.”

To mark this special anniversary the animal welfare charity wants to inspire one million people to join their movement to improve animal lives.

To find out how you can join, visit www.rspca.org.uk/200

The Harry Potter first edition sold in Hansons Auctioneers’ February 26 Bishton Library Auction in Staffordshire.