The points of issue
First book edition (the expanded novel with six added chapters), April 1891. Trade first-issue point: on page 208, eight lines from the bottom, the word 'and' is misprinted 'nd.' A deluxe large-paper issue limited to 250 copies signed by Wilde was also produced; it corrects the typo.
Is this the true first?
The true first appearance of the text is the shorter version in Lippincott's Monthly Magazine (July 1890), not a book. The 1891 Ward, Lock book is the first edition in book form and the first appearance of the full novel. The signed 250-copy large-paper issue is the premium state.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings correct the 'nd' typo and reset the text; reprints lack the large-paper limitation leaf. Any later Ward, Lock or other-publisher printing is a reprint.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Picture of Dorian Gray a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First book edition (the expanded novel with six added chapters), April 1891. Trade first-issue point: on page 208, eight lines from the bottom, the word 'and' is misprinted 'nd.' A deluxe large-paper issue limited to 250 copies signed by Wilde was also produced; it corrects the typo.
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. The true first appearance of the text is the shorter version in Lippincott's Monthly Magazine (July 1890), not a book. The 1891 Ward, Lock book is the first edition in book form and the first appearance of the full novel. The signed 250-copy large-paper issue is the premium state.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings correct the 'nd' typo and reset the text; reprints lack the large-paper limitation leaf. Any later Ward, Lock or other-publisher printing is a reprint.
I have a first edition of The Picture of Dorian Gray — 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.