The points of issue
First edition stated 'First Edition' on the copyright page (Harcourt practice of this era), priced dust jacket.
Is this the true first?
US Harcourt, Brace and World first, 1961, which preceded the UK Victor Gollancz edition by a few days, making the Harcourt the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club edition lacks the flap price and bears a small blindstamp on the rear board; it may still carry a 'First Edition' line, so the blindstamp and absent price are the reliable tells.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Fall of Moondust a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition stated 'First Edition' on the copyright page (Harcourt practice of this era), priced dust jacket.
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. US Harcourt, Brace and World first, 1961, which preceded the UK Victor Gollancz edition by a few days, making the Harcourt the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club edition lacks the flap price and bears a small blindstamp on the rear board; it may still carry a 'First Edition' line, so the blindstamp and absent price are the reliable tells.
I have a first edition of A Fall of Moondust — 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.