The points of issue
First book edition is the paperback original Ace Double D-36 (1953), bound dos-a-dos with 'Conan the Conqueror' in the Ace double. The text first appeared as 'Sea-Kings of Mars' in Thrilling Wonder Stories (1949). Ace double number D-36 and dos-a-dos format identify the first book edition.
Is this the true first?
The magazine ('Sea-Kings of Mars,' 1949) is the first text appearance; the Ace Double D-36 is the first book edition (a paperback original). Later standalone Ace reprints are first-thus.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition. Distinguish the dos-a-dos D-36 double from later single-volume Ace reprints.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Sword of Rhiannon (Sea-Kings of Mars) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First book edition is the paperback original Ace Double D-36 (1953), bound dos-a-dos with 'Conan the Conqueror' in the Ace double. The text first appeared as 'Sea-Kings of Mars' in Thrilling Wonder Stories (1949). Ace double number D-36 and dos-a-dos format identify the first book edition.
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 magazine ('Sea-Kings of Mars,' 1949) is the first text appearance; the Ace Double D-36 is the first book edition (a paperback original). Later standalone Ace reprints are first-thus.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition. Distinguish the dos-a-dos D-36 double from later single-volume Ace reprints.
I have a first edition of The Sword of Rhiannon (Sea-Kings of Mars) — 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.