The points of issue
First printing in dahlia red silk-grained cloth, with Maugham's Moorish symbol blocked in gold on the front cover (its first appearance on one of his books) and gilt spine lettering. Small print run; some early copies show the symbol printed upside down.
Is this the true first?
UK Hutchinson is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Hero a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing in dahlia red silk-grained cloth, with Maugham's Moorish symbol blocked in gold on the front cover (its first appearance on one of his books) and gilt spine lettering. Small print run; some early copies show the symbol printed upside down.
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 Hutchinson is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue.
I have a first edition of The Hero — 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.