The watercolor for the cover of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” the first book in the series, is headed to the auction block at Sotheby’s along with other notable literary items this summe

J.K. Rowling’s 1997 novel “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” was the beginning of what would become a worldwide phenomenon. Now, the original illustration for the first edition of the book is going on sale.

The novel in question was Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the first wizarding world book from then-unknown author J.K. Rowling. Taylor’s cover, which shows a young Harry Potter boarding the Hogwarts Express,

An original watercolor work that was later used as the cover for the first book in the Harry Potter series is expected to become the most expensive item from the franchise ever sold when it hits the auction block at Sotheby's later this year.

An original watercolour from the first-ever Harry Potter book is up for auction and could sell for close to half a million pounds. It depicts Harry Potter and his famous lightening bolt scar nervously standing in front of the Hogwart’s Express — having recently been informed that he is a wizard and must attend a wizarding school.

Taylor’s piece is integral as the visual linchpin for the boy wizard who has enchanted millions globally,” expressed Richard Austin, Sotheby’s Head of Global Books and Ma