12 of the Rarest Books in History

Books have long been treasured for their ability to capture and preserve knowledge, culture, and history. Among the countless volumes that have been produced over the centuries, some have attained a rarefied status due to their scarcity, historical significance, and the mystery surrounding them. Here, we explore ten of the rarest books in history, each with its unique story and allure.

1. The Gutenberg Bible

The Gutenberg Bible, printed by Johannes Gutenberg in the 1450s, is one of the earliest major books produced using movable type. Its rarity stems from its age and significance as a milestone in the history of printing. Only 49 copies are known to exist, and complete copies are exceedingly rare. This book represents the dawn of the age of mass communication and literacy.

2. The First Folio by William Shakespeare

Published in 1623, seven years after Shakespeare’s death, the First Folio is the first collected edition of his plays. Without this folio, many of Shakespeare’s works, including “Macbeth” and “The Tempest,” might have been lost. Only around 235 copies are known to survive, making it a prized possession for collectors and scholars alike.

3. The Codex Leicester by Leonardo da Vinci

The Codex Leicester is a collection of scientific writings by Leonardo da Vinci. This manuscript, which delves into various topics such as water movement, astronomy, and geology, is a testament to da Vinci’s genius. Purchased by Bill Gates in 1994 for $30.8 million, it is one of the most expensive books ever sold and is incredibly rare, with only one copy in existence.

4. The Book of Kells

An illuminated manuscript from the 9th century, the Book of Kells is a masterpiece of medieval art. It contains the four Gospels of the New Testament, lavishly decorated and intricately illustrated. This book’s rarity is amplified by its age, historical value, and the exquisite artistry it showcases.

5. The Birds of America by John James Audubon

This 19th-century work by John James Audubon is renowned for its life-sized, hand-colored illustrations of North American birds. Only about 120 complete sets are known to exist. A copy sold in 2010 for over $11 million, highlighting its desirability and rarity among collectors.

6. The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer

The first printed edition of Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales” was produced by William Caxton in 1477. This edition is extremely rare, with only a handful of copies surviving. It is one of the earliest and most important works of English literature, contributing to its high value and scarcity.

7. The Gutenberg Psalter

Printed in 1457, the Gutenberg Psalter is another early example of printing by Johannes Gutenberg. This book is known for its beautiful Gothic script and intricate decorations. Only ten copies are believed to exist today, making it an exceptionally rare and valuable piece of printing history.

8. The Diamond Sutra

The Diamond Sutra is the oldest known printed book, dating back to 868 AD. This Chinese Buddhist text was discovered in the Dunhuang Caves in the early 20th century. Its age and the fact that it represents the earliest known example of block printing make it a precious and rare artifact of literary history.

9. The Bay Psalm Book

The Bay Psalm Book, printed in 1640, is the first book printed in British North America. Only eleven copies of this hymnal are known to survive. A copy was sold for $14.2 million in 2013, underscoring its rarity and importance as a piece of American history.

10. The St. Cuthbert Gospel

The St. Cuthbert Gospel is the oldest intact European book, dating back to the 7th century. It is a remarkably well-preserved Latin Gospel of John, found in the coffin of St. Cuthbert of Lindisfarne. The British Library acquired it for £9 million in 2012, recognizing its profound historical value.

11. The Voynich Manuscript

The Voynich Manuscript is a mysterious, undeciphered book dating back to the 15th century. Written in an unknown script and filled with bizarre illustrations, it has puzzled scholars for centuries. Its origins and purpose remain a mystery, adding to its allure and rarity.

12. The Gutenberg Catholicon

Printed in 1460 by Johannes Balbus, the Gutenberg Catholicon is one of the earliest dictionaries and encyclopedias. Only a few copies are known to survive, making it a rare piece of scholarly history. Its creation was a testament to the intellectual ambitions of the Renaissance period.