Before there was Dungeons and Dragons - Appendix: Collector's Guide to Chainmail Editions

This companion reference provides a quick identification guide to the principal editions and printings of Chainmail. While many minor variations exist, the editions below are those most commonly encountered by collectors.

EditionYear(s)PublisherCoverBindingKey IdentifiersTolkien TermsRarity
1st Edition1971Guidon GamesYellow-orangeStapled62 pages, no publisher addressPresent★★★★★
2nd Edition (1st)1972Guidon GamesYellow-orangeStapledEvansville address, white inside coverPresent★★★★☆
2nd Edition (2nd)1972Guidon GamesYellow-orangeStapledBelfast address, orange inside coverPresent★★★★☆
3rd Edition (1st)1975TSRYellow-orangeStapledGK logo, $5 cover pricePresent★★★★☆
3rd Edition (2nd)1975TSRSilverStapledFirst silver coverPresent★★★☆☆
Spiral Printings1975–1977TSRSilverSpiralGK then Lizard logoGradually removed★★★☆☆
Later TSR1978+TSRVariousSpiralProduct codes, revised textRemoved★★☆☆☆

Quick Spotting Tips

  • Yellow-orange covers indicate early Guidon or early TSR printings.
  • The Evansville/Belfast publisher address distinguishes the two main 2nd Edition printings.
  • The transition from the GK logo to the TSR "Lizard" logo marks later TSR printings.
  • References to Hobbits, Ents and other Tolkien names identify earlier printings before terminology changes.
  • Spiral binding identifies the later TSR production run.

Although prices fluctuate, complete first editions remain among the most desirable items in tabletop gaming history because of their direct connection with the origins of Dungeons & Dragons.

Location: St Clement, Jersey

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