Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde | 1886, true first edition of this classic gothic novella.

An excellent true first edition of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic gothic novella, Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, which preceded the first English edition by four days and was published on January 5, 1886 in an edition of just 1,250 copies in cloth (this example) and 3,000 copies in paper wrappers. 

An incredibly rare first edition in any state, shockingly rare in such brilliant condition as encountered here. Any collection worth its salt, should have a first edition of Jekyll and Hyde. 

'If [Bram Stoker's] Dracula leaves one with the sensation of having been struck down by a massive, 400-page wall of horror, then Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is like the sudden, mortal jab of an ice pick' (Stephen King). 

Description and Condition:

First edition, first impression, first issue. Original publishers green cloth binding lettered in gilt, halt title present. The binding is an excellent example with the colours still vibrant. There is some minor wear to the boards but this is very minor as the pictures show. The condition is near-fine. Internally, we a small previous ownership name from 1886 to the ffep as well as a bookplate for Richard Lee Barrows. The pages are remarkably fresh and free of foxing and the requisite Scribners adverts are featured at the end. This is a stunning example. Near fine, erring on the fine.

Published by Charles Scribner's Sons, New York, 1886