The points of issue
First edition, first printing, of the verse play, in grey cloth with gilt spine lettering and an unclipped mauve dust jacket. The US Dutton edition followed in 1958.
Is this the true first?
UK Faber and Faber, London, 1950 is the true first; the first American edition was published by E. P. Dutton in 1958.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Sappho a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first printing, of the verse play, in grey cloth with gilt spine lettering and an unclipped mauve dust jacket. The US Dutton edition followed in 1958.
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 Faber and Faber, London, 1950 is the true first; the first American edition was published by E. P. Dutton in 1958.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue.
I have a first edition of Sappho — 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.