Rare Chinese Bible Found in Charity Shop Sells for Over £56,000 at Auction, Shocking Volunteers

A rare Chinese Bible, discovered in a pile of donations at an Oxfam charity shop in Chelmsford, Essex, fetched over £56,000 at a Bonhams auction, leaving shop volunteers stunned. The Bible, the first complete translation into Chinese by John Lassar and Joshua Marshman, dates back to 1815-1822. Initially valued between £600 and £800, the 200-year-old book sparked intense bidding, ultimately exceeding expectations. Oxfam Chelmsford's bookshop manager, Nick Reeves, expressed his astonishment, stating the team was "absolutely speechless" as the price soared. The Bible was part of a collection of 23 books donated to Oxfam shops nationwide, raising over £105,000 for the charity. Other notable sales included a first edition of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" and a signed copy of Roald Dahl's "Matilda." The proceeds will support Oxfam's efforts to combat poverty and inequality worldwide.