The points of issue
The copyright page states 'First Edition' (Atheneum's practice for its true firsts). Black cloth with gilt spine lettering; first-issue dust jacket carries the printed price on the front flap. Winner of the 1967 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
Is this the true first?
The US Atheneum 1966 edition is the true first and precedes the UK Jonathan Cape edition. Signed examples are inscribed trade copies, not a separate issue.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Book Club Edition lacks the 'First Edition' statement, is stated on the dust-jacket flap, typically bears a blind-stamp on the rear board, and has an unpriced or clipped jacket. The stated 'First Edition' on the copyright page together with the priced jacket confirms the first printing.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Delicate Balance a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: The copyright page states 'First Edition' (Atheneum's practice for its true firsts). Black cloth with gilt spine lettering; first-issue dust jacket carries the printed price on the front flap. Winner of the 1967 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. The US Atheneum 1966 edition is the true first and precedes the UK Jonathan Cape edition. Signed examples are inscribed trade copies, not a separate issue.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Book Club Edition lacks the 'First Edition' statement, is stated on the dust-jacket flap, typically bears a blind-stamp on the rear board, and has an unpriced or clipped jacket. The stated 'First Edition' on the copyright page together with the priced jacket confirms the first printing.
I have a first edition of A Delicate Balance — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.