Description

This is a very rare signed First American edition set in correct, unclipped dust jackets, as originally issued.

Main Volume I is signed in ink on the half-title by Randolph Churchill: “Inscribed for Charles S. Bird, P.B.E. by Randolph S. Churchill.”

Main Volumes III-VIII are all signed in ink: “Martin Gilbert” on their respective title pages (most are also dated in Sir Martin’s hand: “Nashville, 1990“). All Companion Volumes authored by Martin Gilbert (Volumes III-VI, Part 3) are SIGNED by him in ink on the title pages.

The front free endpapers of each volume are debossed with a former-owner’s discreet monogram blindstamp seal. Companion Volume I, Part 2 dust jacket is spattered with white paint on the rear face. Companion Volume III, Part 1 also contains a a dated ink location for the signing on the front free endpaper. Companion Volumes III, Parts 1 & 2 and Volume IV green dust jackets have shifted spine color, as per usual with these jackets. Companion Volumes IV, Part 2 dust jacket has a touch of blue ink on the rear face due to a once-adjacently shelved book.

Else fine.

A very special set.