The points of issue
Facsimile of Tolkien's illustrated manuscript with typeset transcription on facing pages. First impression, George Allen & Unwin, 1982; copyright page states first publication in 1982 with no later impression noted. The price appears on a label, seen either as a round gold label on the lower cover or a white rectangular label on the jacket flap.
Is this the true first?
UK Allen & Unwin 1982 is the true first; the US Houghton Mifflin edition followed in 1983.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later impressions are identified on the copyright page; a first impression carries no impression statement beyond the first-publication line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Mr. Bliss a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Facsimile of Tolkien's illustrated manuscript with typeset transcription on facing pages. First impression, George Allen & Unwin, 1982; copyright page states first publication in 1982 with no later impression noted. The price appears on a label, seen either as a round gold label on the lower cover or a white rectangular label on the jacket 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. UK Allen & Unwin 1982 is the true first; the US Houghton Mifflin edition followed in 1983.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later impressions are identified on the copyright page; a first impression carries no impression statement beyond the first-publication line.
I have a first edition of Mr. Bliss — 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.