The points of issue
Two substantially different book texts. The US edition (W.J. Watt & Co., New York, 14 February 1912) merges the original romance with the plot of Psmith, Journalist and runs to thirty chapters. The UK edition (Mills & Boon, London, 1 May 1912) keeps the shorter twenty-chapter text. The US edition precedes the UK by some months.
Is this the true first?
The US Watt edition is the earliest book printing and carries the expanded text; the UK Mills & Boon edition is a distinct, shorter version. Identify which text and printing you have before assigning precedence.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Text varies substantially between US and UK editions. Among Mills & Boon copies, a state with a 32-page advertisement catalogue exists; McIlvaine lists it after the no-advert state, though firm precedence between those UK states is not established.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Prince and Betty a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Two substantially different book texts. The US edition (W.J. Watt & Co., New York, 14 February 1912) merges the original romance with the plot of Psmith, Journalist and runs to thirty chapters. The UK edition (Mills & Boon, London, 1 May 1912) keeps the shorter twenty-chapter text. The US edition precedes the UK by some months.
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 Watt edition is the earliest book printing and carries the expanded text; the UK Mills & Boon edition is a distinct, shorter version. Identify which text and printing you have before assigning precedence.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Text varies substantially between US and UK editions. Among Mills & Boon copies, a state with a 32-page advertisement catalogue exists; McIlvaine lists it after the no-advert state, though firm precedence between those UK states is not established.
I have a first edition of The Prince and Betty — 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.