Collection of Agatha Christie letters set for auction in Wiltshire
Unique handwritten letters from the famous author will be auctioned
A collection of unique autograph letters sent by famed author Agatha Christie to her housekeeper Mrs. Phyllis Rice will be auctioned today by Wessex Auction Rooms in Chippenham.
The letters, dating from 1969 to 1970, reveal a personal insight into Christie's life, featuring mentions of domestic matters and anecdotes about pets.
She was born in Torquay, Devon, in 1890 and died in Wallingford, Oxfordshire, aged 85 in 1976.
Christie is the world's best-selling author of all time and is known for her 66 detective novels.
The letters up for sale include correspondence addressed to Mrs. Rice, detailing Christie's appreciation for clothing alterations and condolences over Mrs. Rice's dog.
Each letter is accompanied by an envelope postmarked from Wallingford, where Christie resided.
In addition to Christie’s letters, three letters from her daughter, Rosalind Hicks, are included in the collection.
These detail arrangements about Mrs. Rice working at Greenway House, including details about trial periods and wages.
Also featured is a congratulatory note to Mrs. Rice's son on his engagement.
The letters provide a direct connection to Christie’s household, having come directly from the family of Mrs. Rice.
The collection has an estimated value of £500 to £600.
Interested collectors can join the auction on 20th February 2026 with proceedings starting at 12pm GMT.