At Britannic Auctions, we had the privilege of selling a signed Gone With the Wind first edition in its original first state dust jacket for $7,380 in 2023. This iconic novel by Margaret Mitchell, published in 1936, remains a cornerstone of American literature, with its depiction of the Old South and its enduring legacy through both the Pulitzer Prize-winning book and the acclaimed 1939 film adaptation.
This first edition, printed in June, bears the May 1936 publication date error, a detail that adds to its desirability and value. Published by The Macmillan Company, Gone With the Wind remains one of the most important and beloved novels of the 20th century, capturing the imagination of readers worldwide.
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Original First State Dust Jacket and Signature
The value of this first edition lies not only in its condition but also in its original first state dust jacket. Retaining the $3.00 purchase price and unclipped flaps, the dust jacket features the publisher's list of other books on the back, with "Gone With the Wind" prominently displayed. Adding to its appeal is Margaret Mitchell’s fountain pen signature, a somewhat scarce autograph given her reluctance to sign books following the overwhelming success of her debut novel.
Signed Editions and Inscriptions
Margaret Mitchell’s reluctance to sign books adds to the rarity of signed editions. While her standalone signature is valuable, inscriptions add a layer of historical and personal significance, often elevating a copy’s worth significantly. Signed first editions with inscriptions can command prices far above unsigned or standalone-signed copies, depending on the content of the inscription and the book's overall condition.
How Many Times Was Gone With the Wind Printed?
Gone With the Wind was an immediate sensation upon its release in 1936, with 31 printings and over 1 million copies sold by the end of the year. This widespread popularity means that collectors must carefully verify the printing state and condition when assessing value. While first printings are the most valuable, second printings can also command fairly high prices, particularly if they include a personal inscription or retain their original dust jacket.
- RR Auction (2024): A first edition, second printing (June 1936) lacking a dust jacket but featuring an inscription by Margaret Mitchell sold for $2,550.
- Britannic Auctions (2024): A first edition, second printing (June 1936), with a facsimile dust jacket, sold for $186.
- Bonhams (2015): A first edition, second printing (June 1936) including a worn but original dust jacket, achieved $3,500.
How to Identify a True First Edition of Gone With the Wind
Identifying a true first edition of Margaret Mitchell's Gone With the Wind requires attention to specific details on the book and dust jacket. Below is a quick guide to help distinguish a true first printing from later versions:
- Copyright Page: The copyright page must state "Published May, 1936" with no additional printing statements or other copyright years. Copies stating "Published June, 1936" with no other printing statements are second printings.
- Binding: First edition books feature gray cloth boards with blue lettering on the front and spine.
- Dust Jacket: The first-issue dust jacket lacks critical reviews of the book. On the back, the publisher lists other books for sale. For true first-issue jackets, Gone With the Wind is positioned in the right column.
True First Printings vs. Second Printings: Differences in Value
Initially, Macmillan planned to publish Gone With the Wind in May 1936. A print run of approximately 10,000 copies was prepared with the copyright statement "Published May, 1936." However, as the Book-of-the-Month Club expressed interest in the novel, the publisher delayed the official release to June to accommodate the club’s schedule. Instead of discarding the books already printed with May copyright pages, Macmillan released them alongside the June printings. This makes the May books the earliest and true first printings, while books marked "Published June, 1936" represent the second printing.
One of the highest recorded sales was a first edition signed by Margaret Mitchell, preserved in its original first-state dust jacket with excellent provenance, which sold for $21,250 in 2018.
Get a Free Valuation for Your First Edition of Gone With the Wind
If you own a Gone With the Wind first edition or other fine first edition books, we invite you to have it evaluated by Britannic Auctions. Our team specializes in showcasing rare books, signed editions, and first editions to collectors worldwide. Contact us today for a free auction estimate and let us help you realize the value of your books.
