The points of issue
City Lights, printed wrappers. First printing identified by copyright page without later-printing statement; original price on rear cover.
Is this the true first?
City Lights US (1963) is the true first. A landmark Burroughs/Ginsberg collaboration. Signed copies (either author) are desirable.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Not a book club. Later City Lights printings noted on the copyright page; confirm first-printing state.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Yage Letters a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: City Lights, printed wrappers. First printing identified by copyright page without later-printing statement; original price on rear cover.
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. City Lights US (1963) is the true first. A landmark Burroughs/Ginsberg collaboration. Signed copies (either author) are desirable.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Not a book club. Later City Lights printings noted on the copyright page; confirm first-printing state.
I have a first edition of The Yage Letters — 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.