The points of issue
First Doubleday hardcover with 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page; original burgundy boards stamped in lavender; priced jacket on the front flap. A gutter/printing code (such as K23) appears at the foot of the final text page on the trade first.
Is this the true first?
The US Doubleday hardcover is the true first; the UK Sidgwick & Jackson edition and paperbacks follow.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Science Fiction Book Club edition is distinguished by an unpriced 'Book Club Edition' jacket and a small blindstamp on the lower corner of the rear board, with thinner boards. Note that a gutter printing code is not by itself a club indicator, since the trade first also carries one.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Wild Seed a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First Doubleday hardcover with 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page; original burgundy boards stamped in lavender; priced jacket on the front flap. A gutter/printing code (such as K23) appears at the foot of the final text page on the trade first.
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 US Doubleday hardcover is the true first; the UK Sidgwick & Jackson edition and paperbacks follow.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Science Fiction Book Club edition is distinguished by an unpriced 'Book Club Edition' jacket and a small blindstamp on the lower corner of the rear board, with thinner boards. Note that a gutter printing code is not by itself a club indicator, since the trade first also carries one.
I have a first edition of Wild Seed — 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.