The points of issue
Hardback in boards with gilt-lettered spine, issued in dust jacket. First edition, first impression has the full number line ending in 1; later printings state the impression. Booker Prize shortlisted and Whitbread Novel Award winner.
Is this the true first?
The UK Jonathan Cape edition of 1995 precedes the US Pantheon edition of 1996, making the Cape printing the true first. A separate signed limited issue of 200 numbered copies also exists, but the standard trade hardback is the true first for general identification.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later impressions add the impression statement on the copyright page; the true first shows the complete number line down to 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Moor's Last Sigh a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Hardback in boards with gilt-lettered spine, issued in dust jacket. First edition, first impression has the full number line ending in 1; later printings state the impression. Booker Prize shortlisted and Whitbread Novel Award winner.
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 Jonathan Cape edition of 1995 precedes the US Pantheon edition of 1996, making the Cape printing the true first. A separate signed limited issue of 200 numbered copies also exists, but the standard trade hardback is the true first for general identification.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later impressions add the impression statement on the copyright page; the true first shows the complete number line down to 1.
I have a first edition of The Moor's Last Sigh — 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.