The points of issue
Victor Gollancz UK first, 1934, in the characteristic Gollancz yellow dust jacket printed in black/magenta (typographical, no pictorial art). Copyright page dated 1934 with no later-printing statement.
Is this the true first?
UK Gollancz 1934 is the true first, preceding the US Harcourt, Brace edition (also 1934). The UK first in the bright typographic Gollancz jacket is the prize.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
US Harcourt is the American first. Later Gollancz reprints note the reprint on the copyright page; the unmarked 1934 is the first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Nine Tailors a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Victor Gollancz UK first, 1934, in the characteristic Gollancz yellow dust jacket printed in black/magenta (typographical, no pictorial art). Copyright page dated 1934 with no later-printing statement.
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 Gollancz 1934 is the true first, preceding the US Harcourt, Brace edition (also 1934). The UK first in the bright typographic Gollancz jacket is the prize.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
US Harcourt is the American first. Later Gollancz reprints note the reprint on the copyright page; the unmarked 1934 is the first.
I have a first edition of The Nine Tailors — 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.