Being and Nothingness
A first edition in English, first printing of Being and Nothingness by Jean-Paul Sartre (Philosophical Library, 1956) is worth about $382 unsigned in near fine condition, and up to $5,023 signed, based on recorded sales. The first point to check: Copyright page: “Copyright, 1956, by the Philosophical Library, Inc.”, with no later printing or date listed.
Market value · Unsigned, near fine
$382
Valued from 1 recorded sales in the last 12 months.
What a copy is worth
| Condition | Unsigned | Signed | Inscribed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Near fine | $382 | $5,023 | $5,023 |
| Very good | $324 | $4,269 | $4,269 |
How to identify this edition
These points tell this edition apart from other printings and editions of Being and Nothingness.
✓ Copyright page: “Copyright, 1956, by the Philosophical Library, Inc.”, with no later printing or date listed
✓ Title page: Philosophical Library, New York, translated by Hazel E. Barnes
✓ Dust jacket: yellow and black, title in yellow on black panels, “JEAN-PAUL SARTRE” in black on a yellow band at the top
✓ Price: $10 on the front flap (unclipped)
Common questions
- How do I know if my copy of Being and Nothingness is a first edition in English, first printing?
- ✓ Copyright page: “Copyright, 1956, by the Philosophical Library, Inc.”, with no later printing or date listed ✓ Title page: Philosophical Library, New York, translated by Hazel E. Barnes ✓ Dust jacket: yellow and black, title in yellow on black panels, “JEAN-PAUL SARTRE” in black on a yellow band at the top ✓ Price: $10 on the front flap (unclipped) The identification points above show each one.
- How much is a first edition in English, first printing of Being and Nothingness worth?
- $324–$382 unsigned, up to $5,023 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 in English, first printing of Being and Nothingness worth more?
- Yes. In near fine condition a copy signed by Jean-Paul Sartre is valued at about $5,023, against $382 unsigned. A signature should be verified before you rely on that figure.
- Can I sell my copy of Being and Nothingness?
- 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.