Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
ABC News
ABC News
National

Rare Winnie-the-Pooh first edition to be auctioned at University of Queensland Alumni Book Fair

The 1926 first edition was anonymously donated.  (Supplied: The University of Queensland)

A rare first edition copy of the beloved Winnie-the-Pooh series has made its way into the hands of a Queensland university. 

Written by AA Milne, the book — from the first round of printing in 1926 — was Winnie-the-Pooh and his cohort of cute accomplices' introduction to the world. 

This edition includes a unique map of Christopher Robin's "100 Aker Woods" illustrated by EH Shepard, with nostalgic places like "Eeyore’s Gloomy Place" and the "Nice for Piknicks’ spot.”

A map of the Christopher Robin's "100 Aker Woods" is a sign of how rare this copy is. (Supplied: The University of Queensland)

The collectors' item was anonymously donated to the University of Queensland Alumni Book Fair and Rare Book Auction team.

Rare Book Auction co-convenor Anne Mullins said that many books find their way to her team because "people just don't know" about their value.

"Anonymous donors just leave boxes of books, usually from clearing someone's house or estate," Ms Mullins said.

"So, when grandma dies, they just bundle everything up and we acquire it that way."

Loved by all 

Prince Harry reportedly gifted his nephew Prince Louis a similar first edition of Winnie-the-Pooh as a christening present.

Ms Mullins said she had a similar affection for the loveable bear, and the stories of "wonderful, wholesome and whimsical childhood experiences".

"I love the simplicity of the characters and the drawings that speak of innocence and an uncomplicated childhood," Ms Mullins said.

"They offer a humour that both children and adults can enjoy."

Rare Book Auction co-convenor Anne Mullins (far right) loves the innocence of the series. (Supplied: The University of Queensland)

The rare copy will be auctioned off as part of UQ's alumni book fair this Friday, April 28.

Ms Mullins said the book is in excellent condition, and they are expecting it to sell for hundreds of dollars.

The proceeds from the auction and the book fair will go towards supporting important causes at the university, such as student scholarships and research grants.

"It's a special feeling to think that the proceeds go full circle back to supporting current students," Ms Mullins said.

Last year, the events raised nearly $130,000.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.