zombie84 wrote: But the thing is, just because a new 1997 or 2004 copyright is registered, the old ones doesn't go away--

Right they don't go away because they have nothing to do with each other, in the eyes of copyright law. Like every sperm every copyright is sacred and independent. The Special Editions weren't second republishings of a novel, they were registered as distinct new works. (the LoC is not there to agree or disagree with this idea)

From another thread, the changes to the Hobbit book post LotR, might make for a parallel. Don't know off hand if they have different copyright publishing dates. *poking around*

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hobbit (See Revisions)

Lucas might have used this as a guide. Hobbit 37 is the original. In 51 changes are made which equal the 81 SW, but no new copyright. Then to gain new market dominance, in 1966 'the Hobbit' becomes 'The Hobbit : The Authorized Edition'. It is maybe note worthy that my 80s copy mentions 37, 38 & 66, while SWSE became something new entirely. Old trick new spin.

Baronlando wrote: My first thought was that actually supports the kooky Marcia Lucas theory, (since she'd be entitled to half of "STAR WARS-1977" but not "Star Wars Episode IV A NEW HOPE -1997".)

"How did the Special Editions affect your existence?" Is a semi-benign way of asking the 'how much money did you make' question...