The points of issue
The William Heinemann (London) edition of 1962 is the true first, with the printed price on the front jacket flap. Filmed in 1964 as 'Topkapi.' Winner of the Edgar Award for Best Novel (1964).
Is this the true first?
The UK Heinemann edition (1962) precedes the US Knopf edition (1963).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
US club editions exist, and film tie-in 'Topkapi' reprints postdate the first edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Light of Day a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: The William Heinemann (London) edition of 1962 is the true first, with the printed price on the front jacket flap. Filmed in 1964 as 'Topkapi.' Winner of the Edgar Award for Best Novel (1964).
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. The UK Heinemann edition (1962) precedes the US Knopf edition (1963).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
US club editions exist, and film tie-in 'Topkapi' reprints postdate the first edition.
I have a first edition of The Light of Day — 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.