The points of issue
First UK edition published 10 May 1976 by Colin Smythe in a run of only 921 copies; publisher's boards, dust jacket. Early science fiction novel, very scarce.
Is this the true first?
UK Colin Smythe true first. The US St. Martin's Press edition followed in June 1976, not 1977; its 1,525 copies were printed as part of the same Smythe print run with the American imprint on the title page.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings differ.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Dark Side of the Sun a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition published 10 May 1976 by Colin Smythe in a run of only 921 copies; publisher's boards, dust jacket. Early science fiction novel, very scarce.
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 Colin Smythe true first. The US St. Martin's Press edition followed in June 1976, not 1977; its 1,525 copies were printed as part of the same Smythe print run with the American imprint on the title page.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings differ.
I have a first edition of The Dark Side of the Sun — 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.