1st edition of Darwin's landmark book up for sale

[April 30, 2009]  LONDON (AP) -- A British auction house says it is offering Darwin fans a chance to buy a first edition of the famed naturalist's groundbreaking book.

Auctioneer Keys says the copy of "On the Origin of Species" is expected to sell on Thursday for up to 30,000 pounds ($44,600).

The 1859 work established Charles Darwin's international reputation and built the backbone of the theory of evolution.

Keys says the book is one of 1,250 printed and is expected to attract interest from around the world.

[Associated Press]

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