AD&D 1E Best 1E AD&D rulebook?

[Whizbang Dustyboots]

I started with AD&D, literally playing an adventure based on the cover of the Players Handbook at summer camp, so at some level, this is always what "real" D&D is for me, warts, High Gygaxian and all.

But not all of the AD&D hard covers are created equal. Like Great Druids, there can be only one!

 

[fuindordm]

I have to say the DMG for 2 reasons: 1, it is a smidge closer to being a complete game than the PH; and 2 because it is the book where Gygax truly lets his freak flag fly. It has plenty of problems but it is magical.