The points of issue
Faber first edition, cloth in dust jacket. First printing identified by the absence of later-impression statements; Heaney's first major collection. Jacket price present on first issue.
Is this the true first?
Faber UK (1966) is the true first; the US edition (Oxford University Press, 1966) follows. Heaney's debut full-length collection — scarce and highly sought, especially signed. Verify no later-impression notice.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Not a book club. Confirm Faber imprint and first-impression copyright page; later impressions are stated. Beware reading copies offered as firsts.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Death of a Naturalist a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Faber first edition, cloth in dust jacket. First printing identified by the absence of later-impression statements; Heaney's first major collection. Jacket price present on first issue.
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. Faber UK (1966) is the true first; the US edition (Oxford University Press, 1966) follows. Heaney's debut full-length collection — scarce and highly sought, especially signed. Verify no later-impression notice.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Not a book club. Confirm Faber imprint and first-impression copyright page; later impressions are stated. Beware reading copies offered as firsts.
I have a first edition of Death of a Naturalist — 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.