The Pearl First Edition
A first edition, first printing of The Pearl by John Steinbeck (Viking Press, 1947) is worth about $258 unsigned in near fine condition, and up to $6,517 signed, based on recorded sales. The first point to check: Copyright page: “Published by The Viking Press in December 1947”, with no later printing line.
Market value · Unsigned, near fine
$258
Valued from 3 recorded sales in the last 12 months.
What a copy is worth
| Condition | Unsigned | Signed | Inscribed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine | $296 | $6,517 | $6,517 |
| Near fine | $258 | $5,667 | $5,667 |
| Very good | $219 | $4,816 | $4,816 |
How to identify this edition
These points tell this edition apart from other printings and editions of The Pearl.
✓ Copyright page: “Published by The Viking Press in December 1947”, with no later printing line
✓ Binding: publisher’s pictorial cloth stamped in black and gilt, green top stain
✓ Dust jacket: rust jacket, title on a blue scalloped panel, “With drawings by José Clemente Orozco”; photograph of Steinbeck on the rear panel
Common questions
- How do I know if my copy of The Pearl is a first edition, first printing?
- ✓ Copyright page: “Published by The Viking Press in December 1947”, with no later printing line ✓ Binding: publisher’s pictorial cloth stamped in black and gilt, green top stain ✓ Dust jacket: rust jacket, title on a blue scalloped panel, “With drawings by José Clemente Orozco”; photograph of Steinbeck on the rear panel The identification points above show each one.
- How much is a first edition, first printing of The Pearl worth?
- $219–$296 unsigned, up to $6,517 signed, depending on condition and whether it is signed (values as of November 2026). Values come from recorded sales of this exact printing, not asking prices.
- Is a signed first edition, first printing of The Pearl worth more?
- Yes. In near fine condition a copy signed by John Steinbeck is valued at about $5,667, against $258 unsigned. A signature should be verified before you rely on that figure.
- Can I sell my copy of The Pearl?
- 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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