The points of issue
Random House states 'First Edition' on the copyright page together with a number line that begins with 2 (the house odd-descending/even-ascending form, ending 2 4 6 8 9 7 5 3 1); first-issue dust jacket carries the printed price on the front flap. A signed, numbered limited edition of 300 was also issued, and a Franklin Library signed edition preceded trade publication.
Is this the true first?
The US Random House trade hardcover of 1989 is the true first trade edition. It won the 1990 PEN/Faulkner Award and the National Book Critics Circle Award.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club edition lacks the 'First Edition' statement and number line, is smaller, often blind-stamped on the rear board, with an unpriced jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Billy Bathgate a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Random House states 'First Edition' on the copyright page together with a number line that begins with 2 (the house odd-descending/even-ascending form, ending 2 4 6 8 9 7 5 3 1); first-issue dust jacket carries the printed price on the front flap. A signed, numbered limited edition of 300 was also issued, and a Franklin Library signed edition preceded trade publication.
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 Random House trade hardcover of 1989 is the true first trade edition. It won the 1990 PEN/Faulkner Award and the National Book Critics Circle Award.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club edition lacks the 'First Edition' statement and number line, is smaller, often blind-stamped on the rear board, with an unpriced jacket.
I have a first edition of Billy Bathgate — 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.