Rare Martin Luther King book found in Oxfam charity shop

The first-edition volume was identified among a batch of donated books in Thame and later consigned to auction, where it achieved the four-figure sum last week.

The book had initially been processed for shelving after arriving in several bags of donations.

Stride Toward Freedom, inscribed by Martin Luther King found in Thame Oxfam Bookshop. (Image: Bonhams)

However, its distinctive dust jacket and prominent author prompted further inspection by a volunteer, leading to the discovery of a handwritten inscription beneath the cover: “To Mr & Mrs Richard Llewellyn Davies, with best wishes and warm Regards Martin Luther King Jr.”

It is understood that the book is a first-edition, author’s presentation copy from 1958.

The donated edition retains its original dust jacket, the publisher’s blue and black cloth binding with silver gilt lettering on the spine, and is inscribed with the message alongside Martin Luther King Jr’s stamped signature – making it especially appealing to collectors.

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Following specialist assessment, the book was consigned to Bonhams, where competitive bidding drove the final sale price to £2,560.

Julia Worms, manager of the Oxfam Bookshop in Thame, said: “The whole team are very pleased. It is special to find a book which is actually a tangible piece of history, and to be able to preserve it.”

Oxfam spokesman Ian Falkingham added that the sale highlights the extraordinary finds that can pass through charity shops every day.