Celebrating 250 years since Jane Austen’s birth, the British Library is bringing to life the Pride and Prejudice First Edition Facsimile.

Pride and Prejudice has been enchanting readers since its first three-volume publication in 1813, with its universally acknowledged story of love, its enduring characters, and its witty critique of society.

You can now own this precise reproduction of the iconic novel as it was originally published, printing errors intact, exactly as Jane’s own copy would have been.

The Facsimile is presented in a foiled, pale turquoise clamshell case. The novel is presented in its original three volumes, on high-quality cream paper with deckled edges. They are bound in marbled paper, hardback, with cloth-bound corner design. Inside each of the volumes, you will find the coat of arms of Thomas Frankland Lewis and origination stamps.

Within this exquisite gift edition are ribbon-bound reproductions of the British Library's collection of Austen’s letters, with original letterlocking folds, dates, and addresses. This includes a letter from Jane Austen to her brother in her own hand, with the date "Chawton, July 26. -1809". The letters even bear the marks where the wax seal was applied and broken to open.

Rounding off the anniversary edition, is an exclusive commissioned 31-page, sewn-bound illustrated introduction from our Curator here at the British Library. Here you can read about Austen's initial attempts to publish, the reception of the novel, notes on the British Library's edition, and transcripts of the letters.

This Anniversary Facsimile edition is a must-have for any Austen fan, making a thoughtful gift or a treasured keepsake that will now endure in its original form and be enjoyed as long as Elizabeth and Darcy's story.

Jane Austen (1775–1817) is one of literature’s most beloved and popular writers despite publishing just six novels (two posthumously). During her lifetime, her novels of (mis)manners were read by royalty and schoolgirls alike. Her stories have been translated into over 35 languages and are globally celebrated for their wit and charm. Her works are celebrated at the annual Jane Austen Festival in Bath, while societies honouring her work exist across the world.

Publication date: 16 September 2025

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