book auction

A first edition of the Nicolaus Copernicus book that puts forth the theory that the sun — not the earth — is at the center of the universe has fetched more than $2.2 million at an auction, nearly double the expected price.

Not so surprising, considering an 1887 New Haven, Conn. telephone book in the same auction brought in $170,500.

The Quills Literacy Foundation will be auctioning signed copies of 2007 Quills winners to raise money for the First Book. the non-profit organization that provides new books to children. Bidding starts October 22 at www.thequills.org and closes on October 31.

An autographed proof of For Whom the Bell Tolls will go under the hammer in November. The manuscript bears the authors handwritten corrections and a dedication to his fiancé. It’s expected to bring in $75,000 to $125,000.