The points of issue
First edition, James Munroe & Co., Boston, 1841 (Myerson A.10.1.a), in cloth or boards. The volume was titled simply 'Essays' at publication — the 'First Series' designation came retroactively after the Second Series appeared in 1844 and was used on the 1847 revised edition. Contains twelve essays including 'Self-Reliance,' 'Compensation,' 'The Over-Soul,' and 'Circles.' Verify the 1841 Munroe imprint and the original 'Essays' title; collectors confirm first-issue status against Myerson's recorded points.
Is this the true first?
US true first, 1841, titled 'Essays' (not yet 'First Series'). A London edition appeared the same year. The 1847 Munroe edition is revised and carries the 'First Series' title.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later revised printings and the retroactive 'First Series' title postdate the original; the genuine first reads simply 'Essays' with the 1841 Munroe imprint.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Essays (First Series) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, James Munroe & Co., Boston, 1841 (Myerson A.10.1.a), in cloth or boards. The volume was titled simply 'Essays' at publication — the 'First Series' designation came retroactively after the Second Series appeared in 1844 and was used on the 1847 revised edition. Contains twelve essays including 'Self-Reliance,' 'Compensation,' 'The Over-Soul,' and 'Circles.' Verify the 1841 Munroe imprint and the original 'Essays' title; collectors confirm first-issue status against Myerson's recorded points.
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. US true first, 1841, titled 'Essays' (not yet 'First Series'). A London edition appeared the same year. The 1847 Munroe edition is revised and carries the 'First Series' title.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later revised printings and the retroactive 'First Series' title postdate the original; the genuine first reads simply 'Essays' with the 1841 Munroe imprint.
I have a first edition of Essays (First Series) — 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.