A presentation copy of Jane Austen's Emma sold at Bonham's yesterday for £180,000 ($355000), setting a new record for a Jane Austen book. One of twelve presentation copies printed, this three-volume set was inscribed to Austen's friend Anne Sharp. The seller is "descended from the family of Richard Withers, who were left Sharp's property when she died." This is believed to be the only Emma presentation copy ever to sell at auction, as well as the only one given to a personal friend of the author.
The Guardian says the winning bidder was an anonymous Briton.
