Watership Down 1972 2nd Printing: Collector's Guide & Value Analysis

For collectors and bibliophiles, certain editions of beloved novels transcend mere reading copies to become tangible pieces of literary history. The 1972 second printing of Richard Adams' Watership Down, published by Macmillan Publishing Co. in New York, is one such edition. This specific hardcover with dust jacket represents a crucial early point in the journey of a book that would become a global phenomenon. This guide delves into the significance of this edition, how to identify it, what determines its value, and why it remains a cornerstone for collectors of modern classics and fantasy literature.

The Genesis of a Classic: Watership Down's Early Publication History

Richard Adams' epic tale of rabbits seeking a new home was not an instant success. After being rejected by several publishers, Watership Down was finally accepted by Rex Collings Ltd. in the UK, with a first printing in 1972. Its American debut came later that same year under the Macmillan Publishing Co. imprint in New York. The first U.S. printing was modest, but word-of-mouth and critical acclaim spurred immediate demand. The second printing, also dated 1972, was rushed to press to meet this growing interest. This makes the 1972 second printing a fascinating artifact—it captures the moment the book began its meteoric rise from a niche children's story to a bestselling novel read by adults and children alike, eventually winning the Carnegie Medal and the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize.

Identifying the 1972 Macmillan Second Printing

Accurate identification is key for any collector. The edition in question is the Richard Adams 1972 WATERSHIP DOWN Macmillan Publishing Co. NY 2nd Printing HC/DJ. Key identifiers include:

Publisher & Date: The title page and copyright page must clearly state "Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc., New York" and include "1972" as the copyright date.
Printing Statement: The copyright page should indicate it is the "Second Printing 1972." Sometimes this is a numbered sequence (e.g., "2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10"), with the lowest number present denoting the printing.
Binding: It is a hardcover (HC) in a likely blue or brown cloth binding, with the title and author stamped on the spine.
Dust Jacket (DJ): The presence of the original, price-clipped or unclipped, dust jacket is paramount. The first edition jacket often featured John Lawrence's distinctive woodcut-style artwork. It's crucial to verify the jacket matches this specific printing, as later printings may have different designs or blurbs.

Collectors should examine these points carefully, as later reprints and book club editions are common. The true second printing holds a specific place in the book's bibliographic timeline.

What Determines the Value of This Edition?

Value in the collectible book market is dictated by a confluence of factors, often summarized as scarcity, condition, and demand.

Condition, Condition, Condition: This is the single most important factor. For a hardcover book like this, value hinges on the state of both the book and its dust jacket. A book in "Fine" condition (tight binding, clean pages, sharp corners) with a dust jacket in equal condition (no tears, chips, or significant fading) commands a premium. The jacket is often 70-80% of a modern book's value.
Scarcity & Historical Significance: While not as rare as the true first edition, the 1972 second printing is still an early, historically significant printing from the book's breakout year. It represents the first response to public demand in the U.S. market.
Demand for the Title: Watership Down enjoys enduring popularity. It is a perennial classic novel taught in schools, adapted into films and miniseries, and beloved by generations. This consistent cultural relevance sustains collector interest.
Association & Provenance: Any signatures, inscriptions, or unique provenance (e.g., from a notable previous owner) can significantly increase value. An unsigned second printing is a standard collectible; one signed by Richard Adams is a major find.

Watership Down's Enduring Legacy and Collectibility

Why does this particular book resonate so strongly with collectors? Beyond its publication details, Watership Down is a unique work. Richard Adams crafted a sprawling adventure with its own mythology, language (Lapine), and complex social structures, all within a rabbit warren. It is simultaneously a thrilling survival story, a profound commentary on leadership and community, and an ecological fable. This depth ensures it is never viewed as just a children's book, broadening its appeal to serious literary collectors.

The 1972 edition, especially from a prestigious house like Macmillan, embodies the novel's authentic first wave of success. For a collector, owning this edition is about connecting with that pivotal moment. It's a piece of 20th-century literary history that continues to captivate readers, making it a collectible book with both emotional and financial merit.

Building a Collection Around Watership Down

For those inspired by this guide, the 1972 Macmillan second printing can be the centerpiece of a fascinating collection. One could expand to include the UK first edition, later illustrated editions, foreign translations with notable artwork, or even related ephemera like promotional posters. Focusing on the works of Richard Adams himself is another rewarding path. Each edition tells a part of the story of how a humble manuscript about rabbits became a global classic.

When seeking out this specific printing, always buy from reputable dealers who provide clear, detailed descriptions and photographs of the actual item, paying close attention to the condition points outlined above. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Hazel, Fiver, and Bigwig or a collector specializing in modern classics, the 1972 second printing of Watership Down is a meaningful and valuable acquisition that celebrates one of literature's most enduring adventures.