The points of issue
UK first (Bloomsbury, 21 June 2003). The copyright page must state 'First Edition' (the last four titles in the series carry this wording). Earliest copies are noted for printer's errors on the opening page not present in later runs, notably 'bo' for 'boy' and a poorly printed 'scuffiness'/'scruffiness'. The copyright page shows 'Bloomsbury' and '2003'. 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 followed in 2003. The 'First Edition' statement plus the early-run page-one typos are the reliable markers.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings correct the opening-page typos and drop 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 Order of the Phoenix a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: UK first (Bloomsbury, 21 June 2003). The copyright page must state 'First Edition' (the last four titles in the series carry this wording). Earliest copies are noted for printer's errors on the opening page not present in later runs, notably 'bo' for 'boy' and a poorly printed 'scuffiness'/'scruffiness'. The copyright page shows 'Bloomsbury' and '2003'. 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 followed in 2003. The 'First Edition' statement plus the early-run page-one typos are the reliable markers.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings correct the opening-page typos and drop 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 Order of the Phoenix — 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.