The points of issue
Harper (HarperCollins) first printing has 'FIRST EDITION' stated on the copyright page with a full number line ending in 1 (an 'LSC' printer code appears in the line). The first-issue jacket carries the printed price and, importantly, does NOT mention the Pulitzer Prize; jackets noting the Pulitzer are later printings. The number line ending in 1 plus a Pulitzer-free jacket are the decisive points.
Is this the true first?
The US Harper/HarperCollins 2020 hardcover is the true first edition; 'FIRST EDITION' plus a number line ending in 1 confirms a first printing.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings drop the 1 from the number line and may add Pulitzer Prize wording to the jacket; book-club copies show a rear-board blind-stamp.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Night Watchman a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Harper (HarperCollins) first printing has 'FIRST EDITION' stated on the copyright page with a full number line ending in 1 (an 'LSC' printer code appears in the line). The first-issue jacket carries the printed price and, importantly, does NOT mention the Pulitzer Prize; jackets noting the Pulitzer are later printings. The number line ending in 1 plus a Pulitzer-free jacket are the decisive points.
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 US Harper/HarperCollins 2020 hardcover is the true first edition; 'FIRST EDITION' plus a number line ending in 1 confirms a first printing.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings drop the 1 from the number line and may add Pulitzer Prize wording to the jacket; book-club copies show a rear-board blind-stamp.
I have a first edition of The Night Watchman — 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.