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Identification

Peter Straub 'The Throat' First Edition, First Printing

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a true first edition, first printing of Peter Straub's critically acclaimed psychological horror novel 'The Throat', published in April 1993.

Story

Published by Dutton (an imprint of New American Library) in April 1993, 'The Throat' is the concluding volume of Peter Straub's acclaimed Blue Rose Trilogy. Straub is a highly regarded figure in dark fantasy and psychological horror, known both for his solo work and his collaborations with Stephen King. The secondary market for modern first editions from major 1980s and 1990s horror authors is steady but saturated. Supply generally outstrips demand for unsigned copies, keeping prices accessible.

Maker / Origin

Unattributed

Condition & Value

For modern first editions, the condition of the dust jacket and the page edges dictates the value tier. To reach the higher end of the estimate, the dust jacket must be unclipped, free of tears or edge-wear, and the pages must be crisp and white without the yellowing or foxing that frequently affects 1990s paper stock.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

The secondary market for modern first editions from major 1980s and 1990s horror authors is steady but saturated. Supply generally outstrips demand for unsigned copies, keeping prices accessible. Buyers are typically genre enthusiasts looking to complete specific series, such as Straub's Blue Rose Trilogy, and they heavily prioritize condition.

Value Drivers

▲ True First Edition, First Printing status appeals to genre collectors.

▲ Presence of the original, iconic dust jacket is mandatory for collector value.

▲ Serves as the conclusion to the popular Blue Rose Trilogy, driving completionist demand.

Concerns

▼ Unverified copyright page — if the number line does not indicate a first printing, the value drops to a reading copy ($5-$10).

▼ Unverified dust jacket condition — price-clipping, fading, or edge-tears will push the value to the low end of the range.

▼ High general supply of 1990s hardcovers limits upward price mobility.

Best Venue

List on broad secondary marketplaces like eBay or Etsy. To maximize the listing, include clear, well-lit photos of the copyright page (showing the full number line to prove first printing) and all angles of the dust jacket, including the flaps. An optimistic list price of $30 with offers accepted is appropriate if the condition is excellent.

Upside Potential

If the book contains a verified signature or inscription by Peter Straub, the value range would shift significantly upward, likely into the $75-$150 tier depending on the nature of the inscription.

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Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 2 comps

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • Rare Book Cellar
    THE THROAT. Peter Straub. New York: Dutton, 1993. First Edition; First Printing.
    Link could not be verified.
    $75
  • Anako and Nua Books (seller on eBay)
    The Throat by Peter Straub 1993 Vintage Horror 1ST EDITION 1ST PRINT Hardcover
    Sale on record but hammer price not published.
    No price