The points of issue
First book edition, one volume, Chapman and Hall, London, 1853, in original cloth. Follows the serialization in Dickens's Household Words (1851-53). Title page dated 1853; first published June 1853 (a second printing followed in August 1853).
Is this the true first?
The London Chapman and Hall 1853 one-volume edition is the true first book edition. Distinguish it from the Household Words serial appearance (1851-53), which precedes the book but is not a separate edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Illustrated later editions (for example the Hugh Thomson illustrated edition of 1891) are 'first thus' only, not the first edition. A second printing appeared in August 1853.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Cranford a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First book edition, one volume, Chapman and Hall, London, 1853, in original cloth. Follows the serialization in Dickens's Household Words (1851-53). Title page dated 1853; first published June 1853 (a second printing followed in August 1853).
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. The London Chapman and Hall 1853 one-volume edition is the true first book edition. Distinguish it from the Household Words serial appearance (1851-53), which precedes the book but is not a separate edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Illustrated later editions (for example the Hugh Thomson illustrated edition of 1891) are 'first thus' only, not the first edition. A second printing appeared in August 1853.
I have a first edition of Cranford — 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.