The points of issue
First printing of the Herbert Jenkins edition, London, published 27 July 1928. The US Doubleday, Doran edition followed on 28 September 1928 and is the first American edition. The novel was serialized before book publication in London Calling and in Liberty.
Is this the true first?
UK Herbert Jenkins (27 July 1928) is the true first edition; the US Doubleday, Doran edition appeared on 28 September 1928.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue affects the true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Money for Nothing a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing of the Herbert Jenkins edition, London, published 27 July 1928. The US Doubleday, Doran edition followed on 28 September 1928 and is the first American edition. The novel was serialized before book publication in London Calling and in Liberty.
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 Herbert Jenkins (27 July 1928) is the true first edition; the US Doubleday, Doran edition appeared on 28 September 1928.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue affects the true first.
I have a first edition of Money for Nothing — 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.