The points of issue
First printing has the publisher's code 'C22' in the gutter at the foot of page 408. Green cloth, spine stamped gilt, green top-stain. No statement of printing on copyright page. First-issue jacket priced the printed price, with Heinlein's photo on the rear flap and a Starship Troopers ad/blurbs on the rear panel.
Is this the true first?
US Putnam is the true first. The originally published (cut) text is the first; the later 'uncut/original' 1990 edition is a 'first thus,' not the true first. The C22 code on p.408 is the decisive point.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The SFBC edition has 'Book Club Edition' on the jacket flap, no the printed price, lacks the C22 code on p.408, is smaller/lighter, and shows a blind-stamped dot on the rear board.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Stranger in a Strange Land a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing has the publisher's code 'C22' in the gutter at the foot of page 408. Green cloth, spine stamped gilt, green top-stain. No statement of printing on copyright page. First-issue jacket priced the printed price, with Heinlein's photo on the rear flap and a Starship Troopers ad/blurbs on the rear panel.
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 Putnam is the true first. The originally published (cut) text is the first; the later 'uncut/original' 1990 edition is a 'first thus,' not the true first. The C22 code on p.408 is the decisive point.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The SFBC edition has 'Book Club Edition' on the jacket flap, no the printed price, lacks the C22 code on p.408, is smaller/lighter, and shows a blind-stamped dot on the rear board.
I have a first edition of Stranger in a Strange Land — 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.