The points of issue
Limited edition of 950 copies with wood engravings by Reynolds Stone, designed by Robert Harling. Of the total 950, the first 50 copies were specially bound and signed by both author and artist. Two essays on pilgrimage. Title set in Perpetua, text in Pilgrim, printed on mould-made paper.
Is this the true first?
UK Queen Anne Press limited edition is the true first. It was the only product of Waugh's collaboration with the Ian Fleming-managed Queen Anne Press.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Issued only as the limited edition; scarce.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Holy Places a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Limited edition of 950 copies with wood engravings by Reynolds Stone, designed by Robert Harling. Of the total 950, the first 50 copies were specially bound and signed by both author and artist. Two essays on pilgrimage. Title set in Perpetua, text in Pilgrim, printed on mould-made paper.
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 Queen Anne Press limited edition is the true first. It was the only product of Waugh's collaboration with the Ian Fleming-managed Queen Anne Press.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Issued only as the limited edition; scarce.
I have a first edition of The Holy Places — 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.