Imago First Edition
A first edition, first printing of Imago by Octavia E. Butler (Warner Books, 1989) is worth about $51 unsigned in near fine condition, and up to $1,127 signed, based on recorded sales. The first point to check: Copyright page: “First Printing: May 1989” and the full number line “10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1”.
Market value · Unsigned, near fine
$51
Valued from 3 recorded sales in the last 12 months.
What a copy is worth
| Condition | Unsigned | Signed | Inscribed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Near fine | $51 | $1,127 | $1,127 |
| Very good | $44 | $957 | $957 |
How to identify this edition
These points tell this edition apart from other printings and editions of Imago.
✓ Copyright page: “First Printing: May 1989” and the full number line “10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1”
✓ Dust jacket: purple, cover illustration by Wayne Barlowe, “IMAGO” in large teal letters; design by Don Puckey; Warner Books logo at the foot of the spine
✓ Binding: half cloth
✓ Price: $19.95 at the top of the front flap (unclipped)
Common questions
- How do I know if my copy of Imago is a first edition, first printing?
- ✓ Copyright page: “First Printing: May 1989” and the full number line “10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1” ✓ Dust jacket: purple, cover illustration by Wayne Barlowe, “IMAGO” in large teal letters; design by Don Puckey; Warner Books logo at the foot of the spine ✓ Binding: half cloth ✓ Price: $19.95 at the top of the front flap (unclipped) The identification points above show each one.
- How much is a first edition, first printing of Imago worth?
- $44–$51 unsigned, up to $1,127 signed, depending on condition and whether it is signed (values as of October 2026). Values come from recorded sales of this exact printing, not asking prices.
- Is a signed first edition, first printing of Imago worth more?
- Yes. In near fine condition a copy signed by Octavia E. Butler is valued at about $1,127, against $51 unsigned. A signature should be verified before you rely on that figure.
- Can I sell my copy of Imago?
- Yes. We value the exact copy from recorded sales and make a firm cash offer, free and with no obligation to sell.
Selling a copy?
We value the exact copy from recorded sales and make a firm cash offer, free and with no obligation. Get an offer.
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