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Consider that Lucas has said several times in the past that the ultimate versions of these films will eventually be released in high-definition format. Consider that May of 2007 will mark the 30th Anniversary of the original film's theatrical release. Consider that both Blu-ray Disc and HD-DVD are targeted for launch in by late 2005 or early 2006, and one of them will eventually replace existing DVD.
If you think Lucasfilm and Twentieth Century Fox are going to want to pass up a chance to re-sell you these films for their 30th Anniversary, very likely in high-definition, well... I want to know what kind of drugs you're taking. Those next-generation optical discs are going to have an awful lot of room to fill. Might Lucas decide to include the original theatrical versions of these films on that multi-disc set, alongside his ultimate versions, just for sh_ts and giggles? Who knows.
What I can tell you for certain, is that the versions of these films you're getting on DVD in September are NOT the final versions. They're just one more step on a longer road. This is not the last time they'll be out on disc, and a better release is already in the cards. So buy them, don't buy them... it's ultimately not going to matter. Do what you feel you must.
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What year was the special editions released? 1997 (20th anniversary)
Matter of fact I'd probably assume that Lucas will go one more round in the theatres. They did it with the LOTR extended editions, he did it with the SE's and he's doing it with the THX 1138 rerelease.
With better significant sound, picture, music, and storage capability of HD-DVD...uhh...I think it's coming guys.
I will eventually get you some quotes other than what Jason has given for me (thanks Jay).