The points of issue
True first is the paperback original, Fawcett Gold Medal k1405 (1964), 40 cents. First Travis McGee novel. Paperback wraps; no hardcover precedes it. Gold Medal logo and catalog number k1405; first printing has the 40-cent price and no later-printing statement. A key, sought first-in-series PBO.
Is this the true first?
Paperback is the true first. The series was conceived and launched as paperback originals; later hardcover collected editions are first-thus only.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition. First Gold Medal k1405 printing has the original 40-cent price; later printings raise price and add printing data.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Deep Blue Good-by a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: True first is the paperback original, Fawcett Gold Medal k1405 (1964), 40 cents. First Travis McGee novel. Paperback wraps; no hardcover precedes it. Gold Medal logo and catalog number k1405; first printing has the 40-cent price and no later-printing statement. A key, sought first-in-series PBO.
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. Paperback is the true first. The series was conceived and launched as paperback originals; later hardcover collected editions are first-thus only.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition. First Gold Medal k1405 printing has the original 40-cent price; later printings raise price and add printing data.
I have a first edition of The Deep Blue Good-by — 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.