Alcoholics Anonymous First Edition First Printing 1939 - RDJ

Alcoholics Anonymous — First Edition, First Printing (April 1939)

“Big Book” | Red Cloth | With Reproduction Circus Dust Jacket

Description

Offered here is an authentic First Edition, First Printing of Alcoholics Anonymous, published in April 1939 by Works Publishing Company, New York City—the foundational text of Alcoholics Anonymous and one of the most influential recovery books ever printed.

This is the true First Printing, issued in a limited run of approximately 4,650 copies, making it the earliest, scarcest, and most historically significant state of the Big Book. All copies of the First Printing were bound in red cloth, as seen here.

The book is accompanied by a high-quality reproduction of the iconic “circus” dust jacket, faithfully replicating the original 1939 design created by artist Ray Campbell. While not original, the reproduction jacket presents beautifully and allows the book to be displayed as it originally appeared.

Historical Significance

The First Printing tells the story of Alcoholics Anonymous at its very beginning—produced at a time when the Fellowship had little money and no certainty that the book would succeed.

To justify the ambitious price of $3.50 per copy (a substantial sum in 1939), the printer used thick, inexpensive paper with wide margins, giving rise to the nickname “The Big Book.” These early production choices resulted in variations unique to the earliest printings.

Notable First Printing characteristics include:

• Red cloth binding (exclusive to 1939 printings and few 1941 printings)

• Larger, thicker format than later editions

• Page 1 begins with “The Doctor’s Opinion” (later moved to the Roman numeral section)

• A known typographical error on page 234, corrected in later printings

• An Appendix detailing the early structure of The Alcoholic Foundation

The back of the book contains the original lineup of personal stories, including “Doctor Bob’s Nightmare,” “A Feminine Victory,” “The European Drinker,” and “An Artist’s Concept” by Ray Campbell. Notably, “Lone Endeavor” appears only in the First Printing.

Condition

This copy is in very good overall condition for a First Printing, with expected wear consistent with age and use:

Binding: Original red cloth with visible wear, fading, and some staining. Spine shows fading; gilt lettering on spine and front cover is worn.

Interior: Complete and intact. There are pen markings, underlining, and handwritten notes throughout, indicating active use and engagement with the text.

Dust Jacket: Accompanied by a reproduction circus dust jacket in very attractive condition, ideal for display.

Why This Copy Matters

First Printings of the Big Book are exceptionally scarce, and examples that remain intact nearly 90 years later—especially with correct red cloth—are increasingly difficult to acquire. While later printings were produced in much larger numbers, the April 1939 First Printing represents the very beginning of A.A.’s published message.

This copy offers:

• Genuine First Printing authenticity

• Deep historical and cultural significance

• A tangible connection to early A.A. members and readers
  

Final Notes

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and accurately reflect condition.

A rare opportunity to own a true First Edition, First Printing Big Book—a cornerstone of recovery history and one of the most important American books of the 20th century.