The points of issue
Three volumes, published by Newby around 1 July 1848 'by Acton Bell'. The first issue lacks the author's preface; Newby printed only part of the agreed run and issued the remainder with a cancel title and Anne's newly written preface as the 'second edition' in mid-August 1848. First issue therefore has no preface; the second-edition state carries the preface 'To the Second Edition' (dated 22 July 1848) in which Anne defends the novel. The second edition also incorporates some corrections while introducing new errors.
Is this the true first?
The UK Newby 1848 three-decker is the true first. Presence or absence of Anne's preface distinguishes the second-edition state from the first issue. Sadleir considered it the scarcest of the Brontë sisters' first editions.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Editions or issues carrying Anne's defensive preface 'To the Second Edition' are the second edition state or later, not the first issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Tenant of Wildfell Hall a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Three volumes, published by Newby around 1 July 1848 'by Acton Bell'. The first issue lacks the author's preface; Newby printed only part of the agreed run and issued the remainder with a cancel title and Anne's newly written preface as the 'second edition' in mid-August 1848. First issue therefore has no preface; the second-edition state carries the preface 'To the Second Edition' (dated 22 July 1848) in which Anne defends the novel. The second edition also incorporates some corrections while introducing new errors.
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 UK Newby 1848 three-decker is the true first. Presence or absence of Anne's preface distinguishes the second-edition state from the first issue. Sadleir considered it the scarcest of the Brontë sisters' first editions.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Editions or issues carrying Anne's defensive preface 'To the Second Edition' are the second edition state or later, not the first issue.
I have a first edition of The Tenant of Wildfell Hall — 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.