The points of issue
True first states "First Edition" on the copyright page and carries the gutter code S52 (lower margin, near the end of the text block). The S52 code reflects Doubleday's year/week printing scheme. Introduction by John D. MacDonald.
Is this the true first?
The US Doubleday is the true first of King's first story collection; the UK Macdonald is the UK first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The book-club edition has a blind-stamped gutter code (small dot or circle) on the lower rear board, lacks the "First Edition" statement, and has an unpriced jacket. Doubleday book-club copies are the classic trap here.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Night Shift a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: True first states "First Edition" on the copyright page and carries the gutter code S52 (lower margin, near the end of the text block). The S52 code reflects Doubleday's year/week printing scheme. Introduction by John D. MacDonald.
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 Doubleday is the true first of King's first story collection; the UK Macdonald is the UK first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The book-club edition has a blind-stamped gutter code (small dot or circle) on the lower rear board, lacks the "First Edition" statement, and has an unpriced jacket. Doubleday book-club copies are the classic trap here.
I have a first edition of Night Shift — 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.