The points of issue
UK Victor Gollancz first, 1963, in the typographic Gollancz dust jacket (black/red on yellow). Copyright page dated 1963 with no later-impression statement. Boards in black cloth.
Is this the true first?
UK Gollancz 1963 is the true first, preceding the US Coward-McCann edition (1964). The UK first with crisp unclipped jacket is the desirable copy; signed copies are scarce and valuable.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
US Coward-McCann is the American first. Later Gollancz impressions are stated. Reader's Union / book-club editions exist of the UK text — identifiable by club imprint and lack of price on jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Spy Who Came in from the Cold a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: UK Victor Gollancz first, 1963, in the typographic Gollancz dust jacket (black/red on yellow). Copyright page dated 1963 with no later-impression statement. Boards in black cloth.
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 1963 is the true first, preceding the US Coward-McCann edition (1964). The UK first with crisp unclipped jacket is the desirable copy; signed copies are scarce and valuable.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
US Coward-McCann is the American first. Later Gollancz impressions are stated. Reader's Union / book-club editions exist of the UK text — identifiable by club imprint and lack of price on jacket.
I have a first edition of The Spy Who Came in from the Cold — 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.