The points of issue
First book appearance is WITHIN the Knopf collection 'Three of a Kind' (1943), NOT as a standalone. Knopf first of 'Three of a Kind' with no later-printing statement; first-state jacket.
Is this the true first?
Point of confusion: 'Double Indemnity' first appeared serialized in Liberty magazine (1936) and first in book form within the omnibus 'Three of a Kind' (Knopf, 1943). There is no separate standalone first-edition hardcover preceding the omnibus.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later standalone paperback/hardcover printings are not the first book appearance. Seek the 1943 Knopf 'Three of a Kind.'
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Double Indemnity (in 'Three of a Kind') a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First book appearance is WITHIN the Knopf collection 'Three of a Kind' (1943), NOT as a standalone. Knopf first of 'Three of a Kind' with no later-printing statement; first-state jacket.
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. Point of confusion: 'Double Indemnity' first appeared serialized in Liberty magazine (1936) and first in book form within the omnibus 'Three of a Kind' (Knopf, 1943). There is no separate standalone first-edition hardcover preceding the omnibus.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later standalone paperback/hardcover printings are not the first book appearance. Seek the 1943 Knopf 'Three of a Kind.'
I have a first edition of Double Indemnity (in 'Three of a Kind') — 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.