The points of issue
Harper first printings of this era state 'First Edition' on the copyright page and carry Harper's two-letter month-year code, where the second letter denotes the year (X = 1923). So the copyright page should read 'First Edition' with a code ending in X. Title page dated 1923.
Is this the true first?
US Harper & Brothers 1923 is the true first. Confirm via the stated 'First Edition' plus the Harper code with the year letter X (1923). Harper began stating 'First Edition' in 1922 alongside the letter code, so both should be present.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Scarce title with few reprints; no notable book-club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Able McLaughlins a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Harper first printings of this era state 'First Edition' on the copyright page and carry Harper's two-letter month-year code, where the second letter denotes the year (X = 1923). So the copyright page should read 'First Edition' with a code ending in X. Title page dated 1923.
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 Harper & Brothers 1923 is the true first. Confirm via the stated 'First Edition' plus the Harper code with the year letter X (1923). Harper began stating 'First Edition' in 1922 alongside the letter code, so both should be present.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Scarce title with few reprints; no notable book-club edition.
I have a first edition of The Able McLaughlins — 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.