The Real History of the Rosicrucians by A.E. Waite [1887 True First Edition]

The Real History of the Rosicrucians by A.E. Waite

Publication: 1887 George Redway True First Edition

A.E. Waite's account of the history of The Rosicrucians and hence alchemists including accounts from the 17th century german pamphlets through to 19th century groups but prior to his own known direct involvement in the Golden Dawn.

This is a True First Edition: George Redway originally published this book in 1887 (the copy you see here) There is an almost identical version of this book that is often touted as a first edition; however they are in fact second printings and alternate binding variations of this original Redway edition pictured here. There are a few subtle differences to note: The original Redway editions contains 'Redway' at the base of the spine; the second(or later) binding variations contain the Paul Trench, Trubner & Co imprint at the base, and more notably lacks the rosy cross symbol on the spine, the later binding also exclude the publication year on the title page. Paul Trench, Trubner & Co was an amalgamation of three publishing companies Kegan Paul Trench & Co, Trubner & Co, and George Redway. Hence creating Paul Trench, Trubner & Co in 1889, they then reprinted many titles pages but seemingly used prior text blocks of previously published works which went unsold.  These are some of the few differences which often help in identifying the true first printings. Another rather curious thing to note about this edition is the fact that some versions contain some symbols upside down, and others upright.

RARE!

Condition: Original bright blue decorated gilt boards and spine, spine ends frayed, spine slightly darkened but gilt  still remain bright throughout, pages are clean with no markings, overall in Very Good condition