The fundamental difference between the two editions is the elaborate container housing the deluxe. A tumbling motion occurs when one opens the case, mimicking the river that visually flows through the text pages. Along the way, one encounters a compass, fractal patterns and labyrinths, and a large-scale grid that echoes the maps inside. A unique collage of various map tidbits is recessed on the cover. The goatskin leather exterior vibrates with two intensely-colored greens and a painted turquoise river. Techniques used to work the leather include sandblasting, hand painting, die stamping, and recessed & open windows.

Wrapping the cover boards is St. Armand handmade paper that is printed, painted, and foil-stamped in a pattern based on prime numbers. Within the map accordion for the book, the deluxe offers several rare maps. The colophon, with revised text and an additional color, features press-numbering from D43.1 to D43.12; these edition numbers are also printed within the case.

One dozen (because 4 x 3 = 12) copies of 43 are offered in deluxe format. Currently, edition numbers 7 and 8 are available. When fully open, the case lies flat to a 40-inch-wide expanse. The height is 27.5 inches where top and bottom flaps occur. Please refer to the standard edition for general description and additional details common to both.