The points of issue
First printing of the novel. UK Heinemann 1908 precedes the US Baker & Taylor edition of 1909.
Decode the printer’s key: paste the number line into the decoder · William Heinemann first-edition guide.
Is this the true first?
UK Heinemann is the true first; US Baker & Taylor followed in 1909.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Explorer a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing of the novel. UK Heinemann 1908 precedes the US Baker & Taylor edition of 1909.
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 Heinemann is the true first; US Baker & Taylor followed in 1909.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue.
I have a first edition of The Explorer — 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.