The points of issue
First edition, three-volume hardcover boxed set, Andrews McMeel, 2005. First printing identified by the number line and the original slipcase/box. First-print sets predate the multiple later reprints of the boxed set. The much earlier first book collection, 'Calvin and Hobbes' (Andrews McMeel, 1987, a trade paperback), is the earliest book appearance and a separate collectible.
Is this the true first?
US true first of the complete collection. The 1987 'Calvin and Hobbes' first collection is the earliest book appearance and a distinct collectible. Keep the 2005 complete set separate from the 1987 first collection.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition; later printings of the boxed set are common. Verify the first-printing number line and the 2005 date, and confirm the original packaging, since first-print sets are identified by both the number line and the original box.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Complete Calvin and Hobbes a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, three-volume hardcover boxed set, Andrews McMeel, 2005. First printing identified by the number line and the original slipcase/box. First-print sets predate the multiple later reprints of the boxed set. The much earlier first book collection, 'Calvin and Hobbes' (Andrews McMeel, 1987, a trade paperback), is the earliest book appearance and a separate collectible.
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 of the complete collection. The 1987 'Calvin and Hobbes' first collection is the earliest book appearance and a distinct collectible. Keep the 2005 complete set separate from the 1987 first collection.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition; later printings of the boxed set are common. Verify the first-printing number line and the 2005 date, and confirm the original packaging, since first-print sets are identified by both the number line and the original box.
I have a first edition of The Complete Calvin and Hobbes — 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.