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GERNSBACK, HUGO.
Ralph 124C 41+. A Romance of the Year 2660.
Illustrated with 11 plates by Frank R. Paul. 8vo, publisher’s blue cloth with gilt titles, joints
darkened from binding blue as usual, top edges a little dust soiled; dust jacket, small chip to
spine panel head not touching letters, few corner nicks, minor rubbing, 1
1
/
4
-inch closed
tear to top of front panel; ownership inscription penciled to front pastedown, minor spot-
ting to first few text leaves, else quite clean.
Boston:The Stratford Company, 1925
[8,000/12,000]
SIGNED FIRST EDITION IN UNRESTORED JACKET
of one of the foundational texts in the science-fiction
pantheon.The inscription “Sincerely yours” above the signature apparently in second, unknown hand
(as seen in other copies). Gernsback originally serialized this work in his Modern Electrics magazine,
and also founded the pioneering journal Amazing Stories. The annual Hugo Awards, named in his
honor, continue to highlight his contributions to the formation of science-fiction as a viable literary
genre. Currey’s binding state A, with “Stratford” at base of spine measuring 1.5 cm (no priority).
Scarce. Last copy in jacket at auction sold in these rooms (Swann, 21 June 2012, lot 157). Currey, p. 198.