Alcoholics Anonymous First Edition Light Blue 3rd Printing from 1942 - RDJ
Rare First Edition 3rd Printing Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book - 1942
Condition: Very Good
Format: Hardcover with Reproduction Dust Jacket
Publisher: Works Publishing, Inc.
Publication Year: 1942
Edition: First Edition, 3rd Printing
Printing Date: June 1942
Pages: 400
This rare and sought-after First Edition 3rd Printing of the Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book, published in June 1942, offers collectors and enthusiasts a remarkable piece of history. With only 5,000 copies of this third printing released, this edition is an essential acquisition for those interested in the origins of Alcoholics Anonymous and its profound impact on recovery worldwide.
Key Features:
• First Edition, 3rd Printing: The third printing, published in June 1942, is a critical part of the Big Book’s early history. This edition contains the changes to the text that would become iconic in the movement.
• Page 27 (Text Revision): One of the most notable aspects of this printing is the change on page 27, where the phrase “one hundred men who were once” was altered to “hundreds of men who were once.” This subtle but significant revision marks the beginning of the book’s evolution in its journey toward universal relevance.
• Page 391 Title: In this edition, the final chapter of the book (page 391) is titled “Now We Are Six Thousand,” a powerful testament to the growing fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous.
• Light Blue Boards: Often referred to as “royal,” “sky,” or “baby blue,” the light blue boards on this particular edition are highly collectible, as they are one of three distinct versions of the third printing. These boards are in very good condition with some minor wear and staining consistent with its age.
• Reproduction Dust Jacket: While the original dust jacket has long since been lost, a high-quality reproduction dust jacket is included, faithfully recreating the design and typography of the original.
• Condition Details: The book itself is in very good condition for its age, with some noticeable wear and stains to the cover and spine, typical of books from this era.
• The inside of the front and back boards have tape strips and staining. The first page contains pen writing but no other writing or markings are present inside the book, making it relatively clean for its age. The first title page inside the book torn out and is missing.
• The spine is slightly worn, but the text remains legible and intact.
Historical Significance:
This edition represents a pivotal moment in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous, reflecting both the growth of the fellowship and the evolution of the text itself. The 3rd Printing is particularly prized by collectors due to its rarity and the small number of copies released. Its significance extends beyond its physical appearance, marking a moment in time when AA began its exponential growth and expanded its reach across the United States and beyond.
A Must-Have for Collectors: For serious collectors of AA memorabilia, recovery history, or those interested in the book’s significant cultural impact, this First Edition 3rd Printing Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book is a rare and valuable piece.
Please see all of the photos for detailed condition and additional insights into the wear and unique characteristics of this book.
