Since its a UK release not sure if this helps with any info on it, but the laserdisc copies that the LOC has for star wars, the earliest they got one was in 83. I would think they would have gotten a copy earlier if was available, but not sure if they would 'import' a UK release to do so. Dont know if that helps or anything, but thought i would throw that info out there in the discussion.

ps. Slightly off topic, but I did have my whole LOC thread but not sure where it went, in it i gave info on the various copies the LOC has. It doesnt show a 79 version, but like i said, dont know if the LOC deals in UK releases.

this is what they have
1 videodisc of 1 (laser) (ca. 120 min.) : sd., col. ; 12 in. viewing copy.
1 videodisc of 1 (laser) (ca. 120 min.) : sd., col. ; 12 in. viewing copy (copy 2)
1 videodisc of 1 (laser) (ca. 120 min.) : sd., col. ; 12 in. viewing copy (copy 3)
1 videodisc of 1 (CED) (ca. 120 min.) : sd., col. ; 12 in. viewing copy.
12 reels of 12 on 6 (ca. 10869 ft.) : sd., col., anamorphic ; 35 mm. ref print.
12 reels of 12 on 6 (ca. 10869 ft.) : sd., col., anamorphic ; 35 mm. ref print.

and this is when they recieved it
Received: 7/8/83; viewing copies (copy 1 and 2); purchase, purchase order no. 0124319; LC Purchase Collection.
Received: 11/88; viewing copy (copy 3); purchase; LC Purchase Collection.
Received: ca. 1983 or 1984; viewing copy; purchase; LC Purchase Collection.
Received: 3/28/78; ref print; copyright deposit--advanced selection; Copyright Collection.
Received: 6/19/79; ref print (FGD 5534-5539); copyright deposit--no agreement; Copyright Collection.