Alcoholics Anonymous — First Edition, Thirteenth Printing (February 1950)
With Original Dust Jacket
Publisher: Works Publishing, Inc.
Printing Date: February 1950
Edition: First Edition, Thirteenth Printing
Print Run: 50,000 copies (largest print run of the First Edition)
Binding: Hardcover
Dust Jacket: Original
Description
Offered here is a First Edition, Thirteenth Printing of Alcoholics Anonymous, published in February 1950 by Works Publishing, Inc. This printing is notable for having the largest print run of the entire First Edition, with approximately 50,000 copies released, reflecting the rapid growth of the Fellowship.
While earlier First Edition printings were produced in much smaller quantities, the Thirteenth Printing marks a moment when A.A. had firmly established itself nationwide.
Despite its larger print run, surviving examples with original dust jackets—especially complete copies—remain increasingly scarce.
Historical Context
By 1950, Alcoholics Anonymous had grown dramatically from its early years. The First Edition text remained unchanged in substance, but the Fellowship’s reach had expanded to tens of thousands of members. This printing captures that moment of maturity and momentum, just before the close of the First Edition era.
Condition
Book: Very Good. Boards show some general wear consistent with age. Gilt lettering on the spine remains bright and legible. No writing, markings, or underlining in the text. Binding solid; pages complete.
Dust Jacket: Very Good. Original jacket present. Edge wear to jacket consistent with age.
Collector Notes
First Edition, Thirteenth Printing (February 1950)
Largest print run of the First Edition
Original dust jacket present
An affordable entry point into First Edition Big Book collecting
Please review all photographs carefully for an accurate representation of condition.
A genuine First Edition Big Book with original jacket — historically important, honestly described, and increasingly difficult to find with its original jacket still present.
