The points of issue
First issue: large quarto in dark green cloth blind-stamped with rustic gilt lettering 'Leaves of Grass' and triple-rule border; the engraved frontispiece of Whitman in workman's dress; no author name on the title page; 95 pages. First-issue binding has gilt on all edges/specific gilt state per Myerson's bibliography.
Is this the true first?
The 1855 self-published first is the true first; only ~795 printed. Binding states A/B/C are distinguished by gilt and cloth; the gilt-decorated cloth is the primary state. Whitman-inscribed copies are association apex.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later 1856 and subsequent enlarged editions name Whitman and have different collation; facsimiles and the 1855 reprints lack the original cloth, gilt, and frontispiece plate quality.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Leaves of Grass a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First issue: large quarto in dark green cloth blind-stamped with rustic gilt lettering 'Leaves of Grass' and triple-rule border; the engraved frontispiece of Whitman in workman's dress; no author name on the title page; 95 pages. First-issue binding has gilt on all edges/specific gilt state per Myerson's bibliography.
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 1855 self-published first is the true first; only ~795 printed. Binding states A/B/C are distinguished by gilt and cloth; the gilt-decorated cloth is the primary state. Whitman-inscribed copies are association apex.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later 1856 and subsequent enlarged editions name Whitman and have different collation; facsimiles and the 1855 reprints lack the original cloth, gilt, and frontispiece plate quality.
I have a first edition of Leaves of Grass — 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.