The points of issue
UK first edition states 'First published in England 1982 by Martin Secker & Warburg Limited' on the copyright page. Black boards stamped in gilt on the spine; priced dust jacket; about 82 pages. Third of Banville's science-themed sequence (after Doctor Copernicus and Kepler, followed by Mefisto).
Is this the true first?
UK Secker & Warburg (1982) is the true first. The US edition (David R. Godine, Boston) did not appear until 1987, so the UK clearly precedes.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No notable book-club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Newton Letter a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: UK first edition states 'First published in England 1982 by Martin Secker & Warburg Limited' on the copyright page. Black boards stamped in gilt on the spine; priced dust jacket; about 82 pages. Third of Banville's science-themed sequence (after Doctor Copernicus and Kepler, followed by Mefisto).
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 Secker & Warburg (1982) is the true first. The US edition (David R. Godine, Boston) did not appear until 1987, so the UK clearly precedes.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No notable book-club edition.
I have a first edition of The Newton Letter — 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.