The points of issue
'First Edition' stated on the copyright page; copyright date 1951 with a number line showing 17 to 22. Original dust jacket priced 2.75 on the front flap. Publisher's tan cloth, spine lettered in brown.
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday first edition is the true first; magazine serialization (in Galaxy) precedes the book but does not affect first-edition status of the hardcover.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Doubleday book club editions are identified by the absence of the 'First Edition' statement on the copyright page and the blind-stamp impression on the rear board.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Puppet Masters a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page; copyright date 1951 with a number line showing 17 to 22. Original dust jacket priced 2.75 on the front flap. Publisher's tan cloth, spine lettered in brown.
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. US Doubleday first edition is the true first; magazine serialization (in Galaxy) precedes the book but does not affect first-edition status of the hardcover.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Doubleday book club editions are identified by the absence of the 'First Edition' statement on the copyright page and the blind-stamp impression on the rear board.
I have a first edition of The Puppet Masters — 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.