The points of issue
First printing, in navy cloth lettered in gilt on the spine, with dust jacket. Historical novel, Waugh's personal favorite among his works. A large-paper signed issue of about 50 copies on handmade paper, specially bound, was also produced and given as presentation copies.
Is this the true first?
UK Chapman & Hall is the true first (October 1950); the US Little, Brown edition followed in 1950.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club printings appeared later.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Helena a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing, in navy cloth lettered in gilt on the spine, with dust jacket. Historical novel, Waugh's personal favorite among his works. A large-paper signed issue of about 50 copies on handmade paper, specially bound, was also produced and given as presentation copies.
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 Chapman & Hall is the true first (October 1950); the US Little, Brown edition followed in 1950.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club printings appeared later.
I have a first edition of Helena — 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.