The points of issue
Scribner's seal on the copyright page with "1922" on the title page identifies the first edition; Marquand's debut novel. Do not look for an "A": the Scribner capital-A first-edition code was not used until 1930.
Is this the true first?
US first edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings lack the seal and/or note the printing.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Unspeakable Gentleman a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Scribner's seal on the copyright page with "1922" on the title page identifies the first edition; Marquand's debut novel. Do not look for an "A": the Scribner capital-A first-edition code was not used until 1930.
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 first edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings lack the seal and/or note the printing.
I have a first edition of The Unspeakable Gentleman — 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.