Signed by Bill Wilson - Alcoholics Anonymous First Edition 13th Printing Big Book with Original Dust Jacket
Alcoholics Anonymous First Edition, 13th Printing - Signed by Bill Wilson
Rare and Historic Signed Copy of the Big Book
Item Description:
We are thrilled to present a truly rare and significant piece of Alcoholics Anonymous history: a First Edition, 13th Printing of Alcoholics Anonymous—commonly known as the “Big Book”—inscribed and signed by co-founder Bill Wilson. This edition, from February 1950, is one of only 50,000 copies printed in this highly important printing run, which marked the peak of the First Edition distribution.
The inscription reads:
”To Bob S: In affection! Ever Bill W. - Oklahoma City / 5/26/51”
This personal note from Bill Wilson provides a rare glimpse into the man behind the movement, making this a truly unique and highly collectible item.
The 13th printing, produced in 1950, is notable for being the most abundant of the First Editions. However, despite the larger print run, signed copies from Bill Wilson—especially those inscribed with personal messages—are incredibly rare and highly sought after by collectors and AA historians alike.
Book Details:
• Title: Alcoholics Anonymous
• Edition: First Edition, 13th Printing (February 1950)
• Inscribed and Signed: By Bill Wilson
• Inscription: “To Bob S: In affection! Ever Bill W. - Oklahoma City / 5/26/51”
• Condition: Very good
• Book Cover: Some wear and stains
• Gold Lettering on Spine: Slight fading at the bottom portion
• Dust Jacket: Very good condition with edge wear.
Historical Context:
The Big Book was originally published in 1939 by Alcoholics Anonymous, and this particular edition is a key part of its history. The 13th printing in 1950 played a crucial role in spreading the AA message at a time when the organization was still growing but already beginning to have a significant impact. This era of the AA movement is considered a turning point, and books from this time are particularly prized by collectors.
Bill Wilson’s signature and inscription in this book not only make it a remarkable piece of AA history but also a significant piece of literary history. Bill Wilson, as one of the co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, was instrumental in shaping the organization and helping countless individuals achieve sobriety. His inscriptions are rare, especially with a personal message included, which makes this book a highly desirable collector’s item.
This First Edition Big Book is not just a cornerstone of AA literature but also a tangible piece of history for those interested in the roots of Alcoholics Anonymous and the remarkable journey of Bill W.
This First Edition, 13th Printing Big Book with a personal inscription from Bill W. is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors of rare books, Alcoholics Anonymous memorabilia, or those interested in the history of one of the most transformative movements of the 20th century.
