Whitman #717, ©1933 Walt Disney. Not only is this the first Mickey Mouse BLB, but it is the original cover version before being altered. This cover features a more primitive-looking Mickey Mouse and has Walt Disney facsimile signature at lower left. The illustration on back cover (also repeated on spine) depicts Mickey and Minnie Mouse embracing. BLB features alternating text pages and single panel pictures featuring art by "Mickey Mouse" artist Floyd Gottfredson. Tiniest trace of corner and spine tip wear, front lower spine corner has neat glue repairs w/color touch-up to 1/8" and .25" splits, side spine edge has 1" surface paper hairline, tiny and widely scattered dust soiling smudges. All are minor defects as cover retains an exceptionally bright and clean appearance w/vibrant color. Cover is VF, pages are tight, clean and VF/NM. The nicest copy we've seen of this scarce and classic BLB. We sold this very same example in our Nov. 2004 auction for $2,501. One of the most desirable BLBs. From the Rogers M. Fred, Jr. BLB & Related Collection.