The points of issue
Jonathan Cape London 1969. First printing with no later-impression statement; dust jacket priced. Publisher's boards. UK first precedes US Little, Brown 1969.
Is this the true first?
Jonathan Cape London 1969 is the true first; Little, Brown Boston 1969 is the first US.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later impressions stated on verso; US edition distinguished by imprint and pricing. Film-tie-in and book club editions are distinct.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The French Lieutenant's Woman a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Jonathan Cape London 1969. First printing with no later-impression statement; dust jacket priced. Publisher's boards. UK first precedes US Little, Brown 1969.
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. Jonathan Cape London 1969 is the true first; Little, Brown Boston 1969 is the first US.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later impressions stated on verso; US edition distinguished by imprint and pricing. Film-tie-in and book club editions are distinct.
I have a first edition of The French Lieutenant's Woman — 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.