The points of issue
The true world first edition of the play, in French, in printed wrappers. A limited issue of 35 numbered large-paper copies precedes the trade run of approximately 2,500 copies, with the justification leaf and achevé d'imprimer identifying the issue. Published 1952, before the January 1953 stage premiere.
Is this the true first?
This Minuit French first precedes every English-language edition and is the absolute true first of the play. The 35 numbered large-paper copies are the premium state; the roughly 2,500-copy trade wrappers are the standard first. The English editions (Grove 1954, Faber 1956) are translations, not the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition. Later Minuit printings are noted in the achevé d'imprimer. Confirm the first by the wrappers, justification leaf, and 1952 printing colophon.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of En attendant Godot a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: The true world first edition of the play, in French, in printed wrappers. A limited issue of 35 numbered large-paper copies precedes the trade run of approximately 2,500 copies, with the justification leaf and achevé d'imprimer identifying the issue. Published 1952, before the January 1953 stage premiere.
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. This Minuit French first precedes every English-language edition and is the absolute true first of the play. The 35 numbered large-paper copies are the premium state; the roughly 2,500-copy trade wrappers are the standard first. The English editions (Grove 1954, Faber 1956) are translations, not the
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition. Later Minuit printings are noted in the achevé d'imprimer. Confirm the first by the wrappers, justification leaf, and 1952 printing colophon.
I have a first edition of En attendant Godot — 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.