Rare Charity Shop Bible Fetches Over $72,000
A rare Chinese Bible, believed to be one of the earliest complete translations of the scriptures into Chinese, was discovered in an Oxfam charity shop in Chelmsford, England, and auctioned for over $72,000, significantly higher than the initial estimate of $1,000. The Bible, dating back to around 1815, was translated by missionaries John Lassar and Joshua Marshman. Volunteers at the shop recognized its potential significance and sent it to Bonhams auction house, where it became a highlight in an auction raising over $135,000 for charity.
The surprising auction results left the Oxfam shop staff astonished, as the Bible was initially valued at only a few hundred pounds. The auction included 23 rare books, which collectively raised funds for Oxfam’s work in fighting poverty and inequality around the world. The Chinese Bible emerged as the most valuable item, and its final sale price exceeded all expectations.
In addition to the Chinese Bible, other notable items auctioned included a first edition of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, which sold for over $21,000, and a first edition of Karl Marx’s Communist Manifesto, fetching $14,000. A signed copy of Matilda by Roald Dahl also contributed to the auction’s success, selling for almost $3,000.
The rarity and historical significance of the Chinese Bible were highlighted by experts at Bonhams, who noted that such a translation had not been seen at auction before. The auction also featured other valuable literary items, such as a 17th-century manuscript prayer book and a 19th-century edition of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, which further added to the total funds raised.
Overall, the auction not only underscored the cultural and historical importance of these rare books but also raised substantial funds for Oxfam’s global efforts. The proceeds from the auction will go toward supporting the charity’s initiatives to combat poverty and promote equality around the world.