The points of issue
First edition, published 12 June 1939 in publisher's green cloth lettered to the spine, priced 7s 6d. The first impression of 2,000 copies was followed later in June by a further printing with minor slipped type. Orwell's last novel under the Gollancz imprint.
Is this the true first?
UK Gollancz June 1939 is the true first. The first US edition did not appear until 1950 (Harcourt, Brace).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue identified for the first appearance.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Coming Up for Air a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, published 12 June 1939 in publisher's green cloth lettered to the spine, priced 7s 6d. The first impression of 2,000 copies was followed later in June by a further printing with minor slipped type. Orwell's last novel under the Gollancz imprint.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. UK Gollancz June 1939 is the true first. The first US edition did not appear until 1950 (Harcourt, Brace).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue identified for the first appearance.
I have a first edition of Coming Up for Air — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.