On Tuesday 31 March, Sworders presented a Books & Maps sale, which included some works by some of the finest writers from the 20th Century. Among them was a set of three editions of 'To Kill a Mockingbird.'
TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD
On Tuesday 31 March, Sworders presented a Books & Maps sale, which included some works by some of the finest writers from the 20th Century. Among them was a set of three editions of 'To Kill a Mockingbird.' With dust jackets, they were rare first American, first English and first book club editions.
It was an unique opportunity to purchase one of the most iconic books of the 20th Century by an author who continues to make headlines today. Harper Lee was born in 1926 and grew up in Monroeville, Alabama - at the heart of America's Deep South - leaving her well placed to tackle the heavy subject of racial inequality. It took two and a half frustrating years for Lee to finish 'Mockingbird' and the book became famous the world over for somehow taking on the serious issues with a high degree of warmth and even humour, while never losing grip on the tough situations the characters face. The undoubted star appeal drew bidders from all over the world, eventually selling for £2,900.
A fascinating group of 42 lots from the Sir Thomas Longmore library feature in our Books, Manuscripts and Maps auction, offering a rare insight into Victorian military medicine and reform. Highlights include two letters by Florence Nightingale, alongside annotated books and personal volumes from Longmore’s own collection.
16 April 2026
A remarkable group of books from the library of Professor C.J.F. Dowsett will feature in our April Books, Manuscripts and Maps sale. The collection reflects a lifetime of scholarship in Armenian, Iranian and Near Eastern studies.
16 April 2026
Our first Jewellery and Luxury sale of the year will feature a collection of Mr. Fish garments and other late 1960s clothing.
13 April 2026