The points of issue
UK first (Bloomsbury, 16 July 2005). The copyright page must state 'First Edition' and show '2005'. A recognised first-printing text point is the line on page 99 reading 'eleven outstanding O.W.L.s', changed to 'ten' in later printings. Printed in very large quantities, so first printings are common.
Is this the true first?
UK Bloomsbury is the true first; the US Scholastic edition was effectively simultaneous (2005). The 'First Edition' statement together with the page 99 'eleven O.W.L.s' reading are the reliable first-printing markers.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings correct the page 99 'eleven' to 'ten' and omit the 'First Edition' statement. Book-club / gift printings (for example a Ted Smart issue) are not the trade first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: UK first (Bloomsbury, 16 July 2005). The copyright page must state 'First Edition' and show '2005'. A recognised first-printing text point is the line on page 99 reading 'eleven outstanding O.W.L.s', changed to 'ten' in later printings. Printed in very large quantities, so first printings are common.
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. UK Bloomsbury is the true first; the US Scholastic edition was effectively simultaneous (2005). The 'First Edition' statement together with the page 99 'eleven O.W.L.s' reading are the reliable first-printing markers.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings correct the page 99 'eleven' to 'ten' and omit the 'First Edition' statement. Book-club / gift printings (for example a Ted Smart issue) are not the trade first.
I have a first edition of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince — 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.