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The Stuart and Mimi Rose Collection /

Beatrix Potter

Item 5B

Peter Rabbit

1901
First Edition
Privately Printed
Presentation Copy

After her manuscript of Peter Rabbit had been rejected by several publishers, Beatrix Potter had this version printed herself, in an edition of 250 copies. She gave most of them away, including this copy inscribed to a cousin for Christmas. Since this first appearance, this story of the mischievous and disobedient young Peter Rabbit and Mr. McGregor has been translated into 36 languages, with 45 million copies sold. It is one of the best-selling books in history.

A worn, brown cover of
A simple black-and-white line drawing of four bunnies is centered on an off-white, aged book page. The bunnies are closely nestled together, each drawn with minimal, fluid lines, giving them an endearing, calm appearance. The page shows slight wear, indicative of an old book.
An open book with yellowed pages, showing an inscription handwritten in cursive text. The message reads:

What will you discover next?

Charles Dickens A Tale of Two Cities
The image shows the title page of

An author presenting their book as a gift?

Go To Item 6C

Emily Brontë Wuthering Heights
An open book showing the first page of

Another novel by an important female writer?

Go To Item 7C

Return to Rose Collection
A vibrant, symmetrical collage features historical black-and-white photographs of three individuals encircled with colorful floral patterns. The background is filled with intricate designs of butterflies and geometric shapes in shades of teal, coral, and beige.

Return to the Rose Collection

Visit the Folger to see this object on exhibit.

Imprints in Time

Imprints in Time

This special exhibition at the Folger features rare books from the collection of Stuart and Mimi Rose that present literary, cultural, and historical high points.
Fri, Jun 21, 2024 – Sun, Jan 5, 2025
Plan your visit
Rose Exhibition Hall