The Essential Iron Maiden is the fourth greatest hits compilation by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, released on 12 July 2005. Released exclusively in North America, it is part of Sony Music Entertainment's The Essential series. Contrary to other releases from this series, the track listing is presented in reverse-chronological order (i.e., the latest studio-recorded songs appear first). Due to the sale of Sanctuary Records to Universal Music Group, this compilation is now out of print. It is the second album by the band that does not feature Eddie on its cover, the first being the first edition of Live at Donington.