The points of issue
Knopf (Borzoi) first issue, identified by "First Edition" stated on the copyright page with no later-printing indicated (Knopf's standard method in this era; no number line yet), and the original price-printed dust jacket. Knopf's Borzoi colophon appears as a normal feature and should not be read as a printing marker.
Is this the true first?
US Knopf (1975) is the true first edition; the UK Jonathan Cape edition also appeared in 1975 but follows the US printing.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions lack the printed jacket price and typically carry a small blind-stamp (often a dot or geometric mark) on the lower rear board. Note that Knopf's own Borzoi device on the boards is not a book-club mark and should not be confused with one.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Great Train Robbery a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Knopf (Borzoi) first issue, identified by "First Edition" stated on the copyright page with no later-printing indicated (Knopf's standard method in this era; no number line yet), and the original price-printed dust jacket. Knopf's Borzoi colophon appears as a normal feature and should not be read as a printing marker.
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. US Knopf (1975) is the true first edition; the UK Jonathan Cape edition also appeared in 1975 but follows the US printing.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions lack the printed jacket price and typically carry a small blind-stamp (often a dot or geometric mark) on the lower rear board. Note that Knopf's own Borzoi device on the boards is not a book-club mark and should not be confused with one.
I have a first edition of The Great Train Robbery — 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.