The points of issue
First trade edition: title page printed in green and black, copyright page reading Copyright, 1927, by Albert & Charles Boni, Inc. with no later-printing statement, illustrated in Art Deco style by Amy Drevenstedt. First-issue jacket. Later printings add a printing line beneath the copyright (for example Thirteenth Printing, April, 1928).
Is this the true first?
The US Boni 1927 trade edition is the true first. The signed limited edition illustrated by Rockwell Kent and signed by both Wilder and Kent is dated 1929 and is a later illustrated edition, not the first issue.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The book was a runaway bestseller and was reprinted heavily; later printings state a printing number. Grosset reprints are common.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Bridge of San Luis Rey a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First trade edition: title page printed in green and black, copyright page reading Copyright, 1927, by Albert & Charles Boni, Inc. with no later-printing statement, illustrated in Art Deco style by Amy Drevenstedt. First-issue jacket. Later printings add a printing line beneath the copyright (for example Thirteenth Printing, April, 1928).
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 US Boni 1927 trade edition is the true first. The signed limited edition illustrated by Rockwell Kent and signed by both Wilder and Kent is dated 1929 and is a later illustrated edition, not the first issue.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The book was a runaway bestseller and was reprinted heavily; later printings state a printing number. Grosset reprints are common.
I have a first edition of The Bridge of San Luis Rey — 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.