The points of issue
Putnam first printing has a full number line on the copyright page descending to 1. The dust jacket carries the printed cover price and is not clipped.
Is this the true first?
The US Putnam edition of 1989 is the true first. The UK Collins edition also appeared in 1989 but follows the US printing.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The book club edition lacks the printed jacket price, may state Book Club Edition on the jacket, and typically shows a blind-stamped dot or square on the rear board.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Clear and Present Danger a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Putnam first printing has a full number line on the copyright page descending to 1. The dust jacket carries the printed cover price and is not clipped.
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 Putnam edition of 1989 is the true first. The UK Collins edition also appeared in 1989 but follows the US printing.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The book club edition lacks the printed jacket price, may state Book Club Edition on the jacket, and typically shows a blind-stamped dot or square on the rear board.
I have a first edition of Clear and Present Danger — 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.