The points of issue
First UK edition 1951; Pauline Baynes illustrations with color frontispiece; copyright page states First published in 1951 with no later impressions listed. First-state dust jacket carries the publisher's blurb and reviews of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe on the rear panel, with the original 10s 6d price on the front flap.
Is this the true first?
UK Bles true first; US Macmillan 1951.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings/clubs differ.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition 1951; Pauline Baynes illustrations with color frontispiece; copyright page states First published in 1951 with no later impressions listed. First-state dust jacket carries the publisher's blurb and reviews of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe on the rear panel, with the original 10s 6d price on the front flap.
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 Bles true first; US Macmillan 1951.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings/clubs differ.
I have a first edition of Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia — 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.