Alcoholics Anonymous Second Edition 12th Printing from 1971 - ODJ
Alcoholics Anonymous
Second Edition — Twelfth Printing (1971)
With Original Dust Jacket
Publisher: Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc.
Printing: Twelfth Printing
Year: 1971
Dust Jacket Code: 40M–3/71 (C)
Description
This is an original Second Edition, Twelfth Printing (1971) of Alcoholics Anonymous, complete with its original dust jacket.
The Second Edition Big Book represents a major milestone in AA history. While the core text (pages 1–165) remains substantially unchanged from the First Edition, this edition reflects the Fellowship’s tremendous growth and maturity, expanding from fewer than 100 members in 1939 to over 475,000 members worldwide.
To meet these changes, the Second Edition introduced expanded front matter, updated appendices, and a significantly revised personal stories section—providing a broader, more representative picture of AA membership.
Historical Significance of the Second Edition
Key features of the Second Edition include Original core text preserved (pages 1–165); Expanded historical sketch and front matter; Additional recommendations from religion and medicine; Enlarged Appendix documenting AA Traditions and worldwide contact information; Thirty-seven personal stories, adding approximately 110,000 words of new material; Introduction of “They Stopped in Time”, a section especially meaningful to newcomers questioning alcoholism.
This edition was formally authorized by the General Service Conference, marking it as a recognized milestone in AA’s development.
Anonymity Dust Jacket
All Second Edition dust jackets include a unique anonymity feature:
“If you wish to preserve complete personal anonymity when carrying this book, just turn this jacket inside out. It has been especially designed for your convenience.”
This copy bears the correct Twelfth Printing dust jacket code: “40M–3/71 (C)”, a notation exclusive to this printing, making it an important identifier for collectors.
Condition
Book: Very Good. Minor wear consistent with age. Handwritten price marking on the first page only. No other writing, underlining, or markings. Clean interior and solid binding.
Dust Jacket: Original and present. Edge wear and age toning.
Please review all photographs carefully for exact condition details.
