The points of issue
First printing in blue publisher's cloth lettered in gilt on the spine, 335 pages, with dust jacket designed by Val Biro priced 12s 6d on the front flap. Volume two of the Sword of Honour trilogy.
Is this the true first?
UK Chapman & Hall is the true first; the US Little, Brown edition followed in 1955.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club printings appeared later.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Officers and Gentlemen a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing in blue publisher's cloth lettered in gilt on the spine, 335 pages, with dust jacket designed by Val Biro priced 12s 6d on the front flap. Volume two of the Sword of Honour trilogy.
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 Chapman & Hall is the true first; the US Little, Brown edition followed in 1955.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club printings appeared later.
I have a first edition of Officers and Gentlemen — 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.