The points of issue
First edition states 'First Printing, 1953' on the copyright page with no later-printing notice; priced dust jacket; Farrar, Straus and Young imprint (the firm's earlier name, not the later 'Farrar, Straus' style). International Fantasy Award winner.
Is this the true first?
The US Farrar, Straus and Young hardcover (1953) is the true first book edition, preceding the UK Gollancz edition (1954). A Ballantine paperback appeared in the same period; the FS&Y hardcover holds collecting priority.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Science Fiction Book Club edition shows a rear-board gutter blind-stamp and an unpriced 'Book Club Edition' jacket on cheaper boards. Confirm the Farrar, Straus and Young imprint and 'First Printing, 1953' on the trade first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of More Than Human a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition states 'First Printing, 1953' on the copyright page with no later-printing notice; priced dust jacket; Farrar, Straus and Young imprint (the firm's earlier name, not the later 'Farrar, Straus' style). International Fantasy Award winner.
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. The US Farrar, Straus and Young hardcover (1953) is the true first book edition, preceding the UK Gollancz edition (1954). A Ballantine paperback appeared in the same period; the FS&Y hardcover holds collecting priority.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Science Fiction Book Club edition shows a rear-board gutter blind-stamp and an unpriced 'Book Club Edition' jacket on cheaper boards. Confirm the Farrar, Straus and Young imprint and 'First Printing, 1953' on the trade first.
I have a first edition of More Than Human — 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.