The Sherlock Holmes Collection of Robert Hess Comes to Sale With Potter & Potter Auctions

In its upcoming sale, Potter & Potter Auctions will showcase Sherlock Holmes and Arthur Conan Doyle items from the collection of Robert Hess. Among the highlights are original illustrations, first editions, letters written by the author and actors portraying Holmes, notable movie posters, and signed photos. The sale also features rare ephemeral items from The Lost World, a Richard Lancelyn Green collection, Jeremy Brett estate items, and an original Baker Street sign. One of the top lots in the sale is an autograph manuscript for the article “The Argument from Necromancy” by Arthur Conan Doyle. In this article, Doyle responds to four questions sent to distinguished individuals in Spiritualism: Its Present-Day Meaning.

One of the key highlights of the sale is a collection of pirated editions dating back to the late 19th century, which flouted nascent copyright laws of the day. There was a 28-year American copyright at the time with possible renewal for another 28 years, while English copyrights lasted for the author’s lifetime plus 50 years. Doyle’s books could be printed by publishers without the need to pay him royalties due to this loophole, placing his work in the American public domain. Other notable lots in this sale include original pencil sketches by Deirdre Keetley, original storyboards and set design sketches by Michael Stringer, and a Cabinet card photograph with Doyle’s signature. Visit Potter & Potter Auctions to view the complete catalog and register to bid in the upcoming A Study in Sherlock sale.