A rare three-page letter written by George Orwell has sold at auction in Stonehouse for £6,500 hammer – rising to £8,000 including buyer’s premium.
The letter, written by Orwell to fellow left-wing writer Geoffrey Trease about the prospect of writing a left-leaning weekly publication for children, had carried an estimate of £5,000-£8,000.
The letter was sold as part of an archive from Trease’s literary estate, which also included original manuscripts, signed books and presentation copies given to family members.
Quire Auctions director Mark Skipper said: “It’s a great result, and an exciting result.
“The letter was sold as a lot within an archive from Geoffrey Trease’s literary estate. The sale includes original manuscripts, signed books and presentation copies to family members.
“The Orwell letter being so rare, by an author that is increasingly sought after, and so politically charged, makes it a truly unique item, one we are sure will be appreciated by the buyer.”
