The points of issue
'First Edition' stated on the copyright page. Trade first lacks a board blind-stamp.
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday is the true first; a UK Collins edition appeared in 1962.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions carry a board blind-stamp; note that some book-club copies also print 'First Edition,' so confirm the absence of the blind-stamp to identify the trade first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Youngblood Hawke a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page. Trade first lacks a board blind-stamp.
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 Doubleday is the true first; a UK Collins edition appeared in 1962.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions carry a board blind-stamp; note that some book-club copies also print 'First Edition,' so confirm the absence of the blind-stamp to identify the trade first.
I have a first edition of Youngblood Hawke — 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.