The Sign of Four - true first issue by Arthur Conan Doyle - 1890

London: Spencer Blackett, 1890. A first edition, first printing, first issue with 'Spencer Blackett' noted as the published to the bottom of the spine and the publisher's 32 page catalogue dated October 1890 to the rear of the book. With "138" misprinted on contents leaf, "w shed" erroneously printed p.56. Illustrated frontispiece by Charles Ker, original black endpapers, original red cloth lettered in gilt on upper cover and spine and stamped with black decorative borders, first binding (with "Spencer Blackett's | Standard | Library" at foot of spine). A very good/near fine copy save for two small losses to the head of the spine and a small repair to the rear cover and spine panel. Spine a little slanted. The uncommon first issue of this rare novel.