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The Virtue of Selfishness (NY: New American Library, 1965). A pb original, (NAL, 1964), this is the first hardcover edition with a first printing run of 25,000 (Perinn A6b). The First Edition hardcover is much more scarce and far more valuable than the original pb. In fact, my sources at the Rand Institute tell me that VOS is Ayn Rand's all-time best-selling non-fiction title. 

This book, an elaboration/explication of her ethical theory of rational self-interest, consists of an introduction by Rand, her 1961 lecture on "The Objectivist Ethics," and 18 essays originally published in Rand's first periodical, The Objectivist Newsletter (1962-65). Why the VIRTUE of Selfishness, some may ask. "To those who ask it, my answer is: For the reason that makes you afraid of it," Rand retaliates with a detailed explanation in her masterly, eye-popping introduction. The Signed First Edition hardcover has not appeared on the market for several years, underscoring its scarcity. 

Book is about fine with a tiny discoloration on the edges of pages in the 30's. The jacket is near fine with some edgewear and a few very tiny closed tears and some creases. Housed in a custom leather/linen clamshell box. Many more Rand titles -- almost all signed first editions -- and other signed and/or rare books by Einstein, Aristotle, Galileo, Paine, Locke and others have recently been acquired. Inquiries invited. We specialize in Rare Ayn Rand, and other legends and landmarks.