The points of issue
True first: Geoffrey Bles (London), 1950; first issue lists only the single Narnia title on the half-title/series page (no later Narnia books advertised, since they had not yet appeared). Copyright/verso shows 'First published 1950' with no further impression line; Pauline Baynes illustrations and first-state jacket.
Is this the true first?
UK Geoffrey Bles is the true first, preceding the US Macmillan edition. First issue is identified by the back-of-book/series advertising NOT listing the later six Narnia titles (which were added as the series was published).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later Bles printings and US Macmillan editions list additional Narnia titles in the series advertisements and add printing statements; reprint jackets differ. Club copies are smaller and undated.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: True first: Geoffrey Bles (London), 1950; first issue lists only the single Narnia title on the half-title/series page (no later Narnia books advertised, since they had not yet appeared). Copyright/verso shows 'First published 1950' with no further impression line; Pauline Baynes illustrations and first-state 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 Geoffrey Bles is the true first, preceding the US Macmillan edition. First issue is identified by the back-of-book/series advertising NOT listing the later six Narnia titles (which were added as the series was published).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later Bles printings and US Macmillan editions list additional Narnia titles in the series advertisements and add printing statements; reprint jackets differ. Club copies are smaller and undated.
I have a first edition of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe — 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.