The points of issue
Gollancz first edition, 1962; publisher's red cloth with gilt spine lettering. First-issue yellow Gollancz typographic jacket priced 13s 6d net to the inside flap. Verso without a later-impression line.
Is this the true first?
UK Gollancz (1962) is the true first; US Walker (1963) followed. The second Smiley novel.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later impressions/reprints add impression statements and are reset; the John le Carré Omnibus (Gollancz, 1964) and book-club copies are not the first and lack the original price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Murder of Quality a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Gollancz first edition, 1962; publisher's red cloth with gilt spine lettering. First-issue yellow Gollancz typographic jacket priced 13s 6d net to the inside flap. Verso without a later-impression line.
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. UK Gollancz (1962) is the true first; US Walker (1963) followed. The second Smiley novel.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later impressions/reprints add impression statements and are reset; the John le Carré Omnibus (Gollancz, 1964) and book-club copies are not the first and lack the original price.
I have a first edition of A Murder of Quality — 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.