The points of issue
First printing in black cloth with silver spine lettering, in pictorial dust jacket. The first book appearance of The Third Man, set from Greene's original manuscript (the film treatment). Paired with The Fallen Idol.
Is this the true first?
Heinemann London 1950 is the true first edition. A US Viking edition also appeared in 1950, but the Heinemann issue is the recognized first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later reprints and book-club issues exist; the true first is the original Heinemann printing in jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Third Man and The Fallen Idol a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing in black cloth with silver spine lettering, in pictorial dust jacket. The first book appearance of The Third Man, set from Greene's original manuscript (the film treatment). Paired with The Fallen Idol.
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. Heinemann London 1950 is the true first edition. A US Viking edition also appeared in 1950, but the Heinemann issue is the recognized first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later reprints and book-club issues exist; the true first is the original Heinemann printing in jacket.
I have a first edition of The Third Man and The Fallen Idol — 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.