SETH-SMITH, Michael & MORTIMER, Roger. Derby 200. The Official Story of the Blue Riband of the Turf (Signed limited edition)

London: Guinness Superlatives Ltd., Nottingham Court Press, [1980s]. Small folio. pp. 124, [4]. Specially hand-bound limited edition of 200 numbered copies, signed by The Earl of Derby MC. This copy designated H.C. Display. Bound in full black morocco, upper and lower covers richly decorated in gilt with crowned crest of Derby 200 and gilt racing motifs of jockeys on horseback. Spine divided into six panels by five raised bands, gilt-tooled in compartments with racing motifs. Gilt turn-ins with floral roll; watered silk doublures and endleaves, with crest stamped in gilt. Housed in a velvet-lined black morocco slipcase, interior lined in crimson moiré silk. Top edge gilt.

A lavishly produced celebratory volume marking the bicentenary of the Derby Stakes, founded in 1780 by the 12th Earl of Derby. Written by racing journalists Michael Seth-Smith and Roger Mortimer, it recounts the history of one of the world’s most prestigious horse races, known as the “Blue Riband of the Turf.” This hand-bound edition was produced in a limitation of just 200 copies, each signed by the 17th Earl of Derby, Edward John Stanley (1918–1994). Copies were reserved for presentation and distinguished subscribers; this is one of the hors commerce copies intended for display.

A fine example, complete with the original solander box, a most desirable item for collectors of horse-racing history and deluxe sporting publications.

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