1679 JOHN BUNYAN. The Finest Version of the 1st Complete Edition of Pilgrim's Progress Available Anywhere!

It has been a long time since a true first edition of Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress has come to market. A third edition sold at Sotheby's 6 years ago for $100,000.00. A first edition if offered today would likely fetch in the $300,000-$500,000 price range, though it is the third that contains the final "additions" that compose the complete work, and thus the edition chosen here. 

To celebrate the 300 year anniversary, one of the finest book producers in England, David Paradine, issued a limited edition of 150 copies. The present is #8 of that limited run printed by Kingprint Ltd and bound by John Gray. Full facsimile on finest hand laid paper, and the only facsimile of this quality ever produced. 

Fine crushed morocco with raised bands, simple gold tooling, and beautiful hand-marbled endpapers. To my recollection, this is only the second one we have handled or even seen offered.

For comparison, Paradine did a version of the Tyndale New Testament in a similar edition that regularly sells for $2,500 - $3,500 and other limited editions issued fetch $3,000 - $5,000 and more. This is a truly special volume offered at a very reasonable price.

Bunyan, John. The Pilgrim's Progress from this World to that which is to Come, Delivered Under the Similitude of a Dream wherein is Discovered the Manner of His Setting Out, His Dangerous Journey, and Safe Arrival at the Desired Countrey. Third Edition with Additions [The First Complete Edition]. London. Printed for Nath. Ponder at the Peacock in the Poultrey Near Cornhill. 1679. Ltd. Ed. Facsimile, 1978. Number 40 of 150. 

4.5 x 6.5 inches as issued. Very good condition with the very slightest of sunning to spine and very light handling. Nearly unread condition.