The points of issue
US edition (Dodd, Mead, New York, 24 February 1917) precedes the UK edition (Herbert Jenkins, London, May 1918).
Is this the true first?
US Dodd, Mead 1917 is the true first; the UK Herbert Jenkins edition followed in 1918.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Piccadilly Jim a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US edition (Dodd, Mead, New York, 24 February 1917) precedes the UK edition (Herbert Jenkins, London, May 1918).
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. US Dodd, Mead 1917 is the true first; the UK Herbert Jenkins edition followed in 1918.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue.
I have a first edition of Piccadilly Jim — 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.