"The Silver Chalice", by Thomas B.Costain, published by Doubleday and Company, Garden City, New York, 1952, First Book Club Edition issued one month after the 1st trade edition [1952].

Original dust jacket with "Book Club Edition" stated on the front flap [dj is in poor condition]; hardcover; 5.3/4" x 8.1/2"; pen-written name on the half-title page; 533 pages, very good condition.

"The Silver Chalice" is a 1952 historical novel by Thomas B. Costain. It is the fictional story of Basil, a young silversmith, who is commissioned by the apostle Luke to fashion a holder for the cup Jesus used at the Last Supper (itself here conflated with the Holy Chalice), and includes 1st century biblical and historical figures: Luke, Joseph of Arimathea, Simon Magus and his companion Helena, and the apostle Peter.

The story was inspired by the archeological discovery of a 1st-century silver chalice in Antioch (see Antioch Chalice). It is in effect a prequel to the Arthurian Legend, where the search for the Holy Grail plays a conspicuous part.

"The Silver Chalice" was a top best-selling fiction title of 1953 in the United States, a top the "New York Times" Best Seller List from September 7, 1952 to March 8, 1953, and remaining 64 weeks on the list until October 25, 1953.

Two years after its publication, Warner Bros. released a feature adaptation of the book. The film starred Paul Newman, in his first studio role, as Basil the craftsman.

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