Early 1900s Michelin guides sell for $33,500 in French auction

Three Michelin guides from the early 1900s have achieved $33,700 in a sale at Vassy & Jalenques in Clermont-Ferrand, France on July 19.

The lot included a near mint example of the 1900 edition, the first ever published.

Michelin guide
The Michelin guide was first published in 1900

The guide was initially printed as a way to gain publicity for the tyre manufacturer and included maps alongside information on mechanics, petrol stations and hotels.

In 1926, Michelin introduced the famous star system, which remains the benchmark for fine dining.

The record for a Michelin guide stands at $26,943 - paid for a mint 1900 example in July last year.

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