The points of issue
The Penguin paperback original of 1978 (ISBN 0140046704) is the first appearance in book form of the collected Rumpole stories, which originated as television scripts. A paperback-original situation: there is no preceding hardcover of this collection.
Is this the true first?
The Penguin 1978 paperback original is the true first edition of the collection; later hardcover gatherings are first-thus in hardback.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings are stated on the verso; US editions are separate, later settings.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Rumpole of the Bailey a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: The Penguin paperback original of 1978 (ISBN 0140046704) is the first appearance in book form of the collected Rumpole stories, which originated as television scripts. A paperback-original situation: there is no preceding hardcover of this collection.
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 Penguin 1978 paperback original is the true first edition of the collection; later hardcover gatherings are first-thus in hardback.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings are stated on the verso; US editions are separate, later settings.
I have a first edition of Rumpole of the Bailey — 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.