Here are our Top 10 collectible Children's Books and their First Editions
Children’s books occupy a unique space in the world of rare book collecting. They're not only nostalgic and culturally significant, but they often had small initial print runs, were heavily used (and worn), and many were discarded — making well-preserved first editions especially scarce. I once found a first edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone with a previous owner’s (children’s) name scrawled on the top and bottom text blocks in pen - imagine that !
For collectors, early children's books offer a combination of historical charm, beautiful illustrations, and the emotional resonance of childhood. Signed copies, first editions with original dust jackets, or copies tied to a notable history or provenance can command high prices.
1. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll (1865)
Why it’s valuable: Iconic status, imaginative illustrations by John Tenniel, and its influence on children’s literature.
Collector’s target: First edition, especially the recalled 1865 printing (only ~23 known copies). Though the 1865 true first edition issue exists, many have adopted the 1866 issue as the First Edition.
First Edition Points: The ever elusive title page stating 1865 - or next best - the title page stating 1866. Both feature a red cloth with gilt. The "inverted S" on the last line of the contents page, along with page 30 numbered as "3".
2. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling (1997)
Why it’s valuable: Phenomenon-level popularity, modern collectible status. Only 500 copies printed, many of which went to libraries, leaving very few in fine condition.
Collector’s target: First edition, first printing (Bloomsbury, with a print run of 500 copies), especially if signed.
First Edition Points: “1 wand” appearing twice on the list on Page 51. Full Number Line 10-1, Joanne Rowling and Thomas Taylor1997 (without space) to copyright page. “Philospher’s Stone” misspelled on rear cover board.
3. The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter (1902)
Why it’s valuable: Self-published origin, charming illustrations, early success story in children's publishing.
Collector’s target: The original 1901 self-published edition or the 1902 Frederick Warne edition.
First Edition Points: “Wept big tears" on p. 51. Leaf patterned endpapers.
4. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
Why it’s valuable: Groundbreaking illustrations and emotional depth.
Collector’s target: First edition with dust jacket, correct price, and no Caldecott Medal sticker.
First Edition Points: 3 paragraph blurb to front flap. Lacking Caldecott medal sticker. Library of Congress catalogue number 63-21253 and 1963 copyright on title page.
5. The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis
Why it’s valuable: Cultural touchstone, beginning of Beginner Books series.
Collector’s target: First edition with correct list of other books on the rear panel.
First Edition Points: "First Published 1950" printed on the copyright page with no indication of later printings. First Issue dust jacket has the publisher's 8s. 6d.
6. Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne (1926)
Why it’s valuable: Beloved character, E.H. Shepard illustrations.
Collector’s target: First edition with dust jacket, especially signed copies.
First Edition Points: Map endpapers, dust jacket with '7/6 Net' to spine and '117th Thousand' at the head of the rear flap.
7. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl (1964)
Why it’s valuable: Enduring popularity, collectible author.
Collector’s target: First edition (Knopf, U.S.), especially those with the original dust jacket and signed copies.
First Edition Points: 6-line colophon to last page under “About the Author” section. No ISBN number to rear dust jacket panel.
8. Peter and Wendy by J.M. Barrie (1904)
Why it’s valuable: Iconic fantasy story with timeless appeal.
Collector’s target: First edition (Hodder & Stoughton, London, 1911), in original dust jacket. Incredibly fragile dust jacket.
First Edition Points: No date listed to title page verso.
9. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum (1900)
Why it’s valuable: Crossover appeal between children’s and adult fantasy literature.
Collector’s target: First edition (Published by George M. Hill, 1900)
First Edition Points: There are various states known as “A” “B” and “C”. Check this link here for a deep dive, regarding the variants, color, colored printing plates and identification information.
10. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle (1962)
Why it’s valuable: Sci-fi classic with a strong female lead.
Collector’s target: First edition (Farrar, Straus & Cudahy), unclipped jacket with original price.
First Edition Points: No Newbery medal sticker to front jacket panel, $3.25 price to dust jacket.
10 More Highly Collectible Children’s Books Honorable Mention
Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss (1960)
The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams (1922)
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (1952)
Curious George by H.A. Rey (1941)
Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans (1939)
The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper (1930)
Stuart Little by E.B. White (1945)
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett (1911)
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein (1964)
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle (1967)
Whether you're chasing a clean copy of The Hobbit or hoping to stumble upon a rare Philosopher’s Stone, these books are more than just stories — they’re enduring artifacts of imagination and memory.
