The points of issue
First edition, first printing has 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page (Doubleday convention) with the matching first-issue jacket; 1971 copyright. First-issue dust jacket with front-flap price and NO mention of the Pulitzer (Stegner won the 1972 Pulitzer for this novel, so a Pulitzer-free first-issue jacket precedes the award).
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday (1971) is the true first—Stegner's Western/Americana masterwork and 1972 Pulitzer winner. The Doubleday 'First Edition' statement plus a Pulitzer-free first-issue jacket are decisive. Signed copies sought.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Book Club Edition is the major confusion: it bears a blind-stamp on the rear board, lacks the 'First Edition' statement, has a price-clipped/unpriced jacket, and lighter boards. Any Pulitzer reference on the jacket indicates a later printing/state.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Angle of Repose a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first printing has 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page (Doubleday convention) with the matching first-issue jacket; 1971 copyright. First-issue dust jacket with front-flap price and NO mention of the Pulitzer (Stegner won the 1972 Pulitzer for this novel, so a Pulitzer-free first-issue jacket precedes the award).
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 Doubleday (1971) is the true first—Stegner's Western/Americana masterwork and 1972 Pulitzer winner. The Doubleday 'First Edition' statement plus a Pulitzer-free first-issue jacket are decisive. Signed copies sought.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Book Club Edition is the major confusion: it bears a blind-stamp on the rear board, lacks the 'First Edition' statement, has a price-clipped/unpriced jacket, and lighter boards. Any Pulitzer reference on the jacket indicates a later printing/state.
I have a first edition of Angle of Repose — 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.