Half a Century of Speed (Limited Deluxe Edition, Signed)

LAKE, Barry. Half a Century of Speed. Sydney: Top Gear, [1998].

Oblong 8vo. Full black leather. Gilt to cover and spine. [xi], 163 pp. Limited edition, number 194 of 300. Signed by the author.

Half a Century of Speed documents Australian motor sport through photographs spanning 1905 to the 1950s — half a century during which the country developed its own distinct racing culture, from the earliest trials and hillclimbs through to the circuits and events that would eventually give rise to one of the world's great motor sport nations. The photographs gathered here represent a sustained act of archival recovery: images drawn from private collections, press archives, and club records that collectively constitute a visual history of Australian speed that would otherwise remain scattered and largely inaccessible.

The edition was published in three limited states: 100, 300, and 400 copies respectively, totalling 800 in all. The Top Gear leather-bound edition — of which 300 were produced, this being copy 194 — is the most prestigious of the three, bound in full black leather with gilt to cover and spine. Each copy is signed by the author.

Near fine. One very minor patch of rubbing to top edge. A few small markings here and there. Otherwise extremely well preserved and in highly collectible condition.

This book is currently not on display in store. If you would like more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact: rarebooks@harryhartog.com.au

Catalogue Number: HH000091