Mumbai: In conjunction with the opening of the newest James Bond film, Quantum of Solace, on 14 November, BaumanRare Books at The Shoppes at The Palazzo is offering a number of first edition books by Ian Fleming, creator of the 14-volume series of Bond novels and short stories. The collection includes several extremely scarce copies signed by Fleming himself.    

The year 2008 marks not only the opening of the 22 film of the James Bond series; it is also the 100th anniversary of Fleming’s birth. According to David Bauman Fleming’s first editions vary widely in value from under $1,000 for more recent titles such as You Only Live Twice to more than $30,000 for the rare Casino Royale and Live and Let Die.

Born into a wealthy and influential British family in 1908, Fleming was propelled to a prominent role in the Royal Navy’s department of Naval Intelligence during World War II. His hands-on experience planning spy activities and organizing a select unit for intelligence gathering served as a basis for the novels that would bring him worldwide acclaim. In 1952, Fleming began his first James Bond novel, Casino Royale, and he continued producing a new novel every year or so for the rest of his life.  A complete collection of Fleming’s first edition volumes is valued at approximately $120,000. Signed or inscribed copies command even higher prices depending on the book.