The Shining by Stephen King Value Guide

Stephen King: The Shining (Paperback) - Walmart.com — The Shining by Stephen King

Estimated Value

$10 – $20

Period: 1977
Origin: United States
Materials: Paper, ink
Category: Stephen king

Published in 1977 as Stephen King's third novel, The Shining is a landmark of modern horror inspired by the author's stay at The Stanley Hotel. This collectible book explores the psychological descent of the Torrance family within the haunted Overlook Hotel, later immortalized by Stanley Kubrick's 1980 film.

What Is The Shining by Stephen King Worth?

The typical price range for The Shining by Stephen King is $10 - $20 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

The physical condition of the dust jacket, as tears or fading significantly impact the $10-$20 market value.
Presence of specific printing codes like 'R49' which distinguish early hardcovers from later reprints.
Overall state of the binding and paper, including any foxing, yellowing, or structural spine damage.
Edition type, as mass-market paperbacks typically command the lower end of the value spectrum compared to hardcovers.

How to Identify The Shining by Stephen King?

Verify the 1977 publication date and Doubleday & Company as the original publisher.
Look for the 'R49' code in the gutter of page 447 to identify a true first edition printing.
Check for the original dust jacket artwork featuring the iconic Overlook Hotel imagery.
Confirm the presence of the $8.95 price on the inside flap of the dust jacket for early editions.

History of The Shining by Stephen King

Stephen King's third published novel, 'The Shining,' was released in 1977 and quickly became a landmark in modern horror literature. Its enduring popularity led to a highly acclaimed 1980 film adaptation directed by Stanley Kubrick, which, despite initial mixed reviews from King himself, is now considered a cinematic masterpiece. The book explores themes of isolation, mental health, and the supernatural, drawing inspiration from King's own experiences at The Stanley Hotel in Colorado. Its prequel, 'Doctor Sleep,' was published in 2013, continuing the story of Danny Torrance.