The points of issue
"First printing, 1977" stated on the copyright page. Bright orange cloth with gilt spine lettering. First-issue dust jacket designed by Jacqueline Schuman, priced 8.95 on the front flap.
Is this the true first?
US (FSG) is the true first; the UK edition (Secker & Warburg, 1977) follows.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club edition is blind-stamped on the rear board and lacks the flap price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Lancelot a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: "First printing, 1977" stated on the copyright page. Bright orange cloth with gilt spine lettering. First-issue dust jacket designed by Jacqueline Schuman, priced 8.95 on the front flap.
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. US (FSG) is the true first; the UK edition (Secker & Warburg, 1977) follows.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club edition is blind-stamped on the rear board and lacks the flap price.
I have a first edition of Lancelot — 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.