The points of issue
First edition, published 19 February 1941 as the first volume in the Searchlight Books series edited by Orwell and T. R. Fyvel. Issued in publisher's cloth lettered in dark green to the spine, with dust jacket, priced 2s. A slim wartime production, scarce in the jacket.
Is this the true first?
UK Secker & Warburg February 1941 is the true first; there was no contemporary US edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Searchlight Books series title; no book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Lion and the Unicorn: Socialism and the English Genius a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, published 19 February 1941 as the first volume in the Searchlight Books series edited by Orwell and T. R. Fyvel. Issued in publisher's cloth lettered in dark green to the spine, with dust jacket, priced 2s. A slim wartime production, scarce in the jacket.
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 Secker & Warburg February 1941 is the true first; there was no contemporary US edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Searchlight Books series title; no book-club issue.
I have a first edition of The Lion and the Unicorn: Socialism and the English Genius — 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.