The Rainbow First Edition
A first edition, first impression of The Rainbow by D. H. Lawrence (Methuen, 1915) is worth about $3,912 unsigned in near fine condition, based on recorded sales. The first point to check: Title page: “Methuen & Co. Ltd., 36 Essex Street W.C., London”.
Market value · Unsigned, near fine
$3,912
Valued from 2 recorded sales in the last 12 months.
What a copy is worth
| Condition | Unsigned |
|---|---|
| Fine | $4,499 |
| Near fine | $3,912 |
| Very good | $3,326 |
How to identify this edition
These points tell this edition apart from other printings and editions of The Rainbow.
✓ Title page: “Methuen & Co. Ltd., 36 Essex Street W.C., London”
✓ Binding: blue-green cloth, spine decorated and lettered in gilt (“The Rainbow / D. H. Lawrence / Methuen”)
✓ Front board: title and author blind-stamped
Common questions
- How do I know if my copy of The Rainbow is a first edition, first impression?
- ✓ Title page: “Methuen & Co. Ltd., 36 Essex Street W.C., London” ✓ Binding: blue-green cloth, spine decorated and lettered in gilt (“The Rainbow / D. H. Lawrence / Methuen”) ✓ Front board: title and author blind-stamped The identification points above show each one.
- How much is a first edition, first impression of The Rainbow worth?
- $3,326–$4,499 unsigned, 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.
- Can I sell my copy of The Rainbow?
- 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.
More by D. H. Lawrence
- Women In Love — D.H. Lawrence · First edition, limited to 1,250 numbered copies · $920