The Robert Heinlein First Edition Collector's Guide
Robert Anson Heinlein (1907–1988) is the most influential American science fiction writer of the twentieth century. Known as the “Dean of Science Fiction,” Heinlein essentially created the modern genre through his Scribner’s juveniles, his serialized novels in Astounding Science-Fiction, and his later mainstream crossover works. His influence on the field — in terms of both craft and commercial viability — is immeasurable.
The Collecting Landscape
Heinlein’s market is mature, well-established, and stratified. The Scribner’s juveniles (1947–1958) are highly collectible in dust jacket, with certain titles commanding substantial premiums. Stranger in a Strange Land (1961) is the Heinlein trophy. The late-career novels (1973–1987) are readily available and modestly priced.
Bibliography Overview
The Scribner’s Juveniles (1947–1958): Twelve novels published by Charles Scribner’s Sons for the young adult market. These are among the most collectible science fiction first editions, particularly in fine dust jacket condition.
Major Adult Novels: Starship Troopers (1959, Putnam), Stranger in a Strange Land (1961, Putnam), The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress (1966, Putnam), Time Enough for Love (1973, Putnam).
Late Career (1980–1987): Friday, Job: A Comedy of Justice, The Cat Who Walks Through Walls, To Sail Beyond the Sunset. Published by various publishers, generally in large print runs.
Key Priorities
- Stranger in a Strange Land (1961) — Putnam first. The Heinlein trophy.
- Starship Troopers (1959) — Putnam first. Hugo winner.
- The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress (1966) — Putnam first. Hugo winner.
- The Scribner’s Juveniles — particularly Have Space Suit — Will Travel, Citizen of the Galaxy, and The Star Beast in fine jacket.