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The Shining First Editions, BCEs and Gutter Codes

Posted: Sat Jan 18, 2014 11:19 pm
by OneFathom
True 1st trade edition of The Shining has a gutter code of "R49." That we all know. Soon after the editions go into BCEs and then back into trade editions. Examples...

*"R52" is a stated book club edition (I haven't seen an "R50" or "R51".

*S3"..."S10" and "S14" are all trade editions with $8.95 on the dust jacket just like the "R49." I also know of an "S19" which is $8.95, I believe.

What is the rationale between going back and forth between trade/BCE/trade like that?

Re: The Shining First Editions, BCEs and Gutter Codes

Posted: Sun Jan 19, 2014 9:32 am
by jhanic
I would assume different print runs as they needed them. The initial R49, then the book club runs, then more trade copies.

John

Re: The Shining First Editions, BCEs and Gutter Codes

Posted: Mon Jan 20, 2014 8:48 am
by OneFathom
Thanks, John. The whole gutter code aspect of Mr. King's books is fascinating to me. Way to drop that knowledge.

Re: The Shining First Editions, BCEs and Gutter Codes

Posted: Mon Jan 20, 2014 9:29 am
by jhanic
Check out:

http://www.thedarktower.org/palaver/sho ... ode-theory

John

Re: The Shining First Editions, BCEs and Gutter Codes

Posted: Sat Mar 09, 2019 11:05 am
by heatherhunter
I have come across a copy of The Shining, while clearing out my dad's house, that has a gutter code of S2, no dust jacket. Any idea what edition and printing this might be?

Also, there are "withdrawn" stamps inside the front and back covers. As well as what looks like the remnants of a library card sleeve. So, I'm guessing it was a Library book at one point.

Thanks!

Re: The Shining First Editions, BCEs and Gutter Codes

Posted: Sat Mar 09, 2019 2:02 pm
by dougsummers
I have a copy with a gutter code of MP4W. Was wondering what edition and printing this was. Any ideas?

Re: The Shining First Editions, BCEs and Gutter Codes

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 8:30 am
by TheCollector
dougsummers wrote: Sat Mar 09, 2019 2:02 pm I have a copy with a gutter code of MP4W. Was wondering what edition and printing this was. Any ideas?
Since this isn't in line with the known gutter codes, which span the mid 70's to mid 80's my guess is that it's some later reprint after that. Also I'd hazard a guess it's a book club edition (check for a price on the inner front flap of the DJ).