1971 - The Diamond Hunters

William Heinemann published the first British edition, and Doubleday published the first American edition.

William Heinemann reprinted THE DIAMOND HUNTERS a few times: in 1971 (same year as the first printing), 1975, 1980, 1987, and 1989 for a Uniform Edition.

I own an exceedingly rare Uncorrected Proof copy. This is even more scarce because Wilbur signed it for me. 

The Uncorrected Proof has an Author's Note that is NOT found in any of the editions that were published for sale to the public.

I own 5 copies of first printing of the British first edition, and 2 of them are pictured below. Wilbur signed 4 of my copies.

The signature in one of my copies.

I found the signed copy below on eBay and it is not in my collection.

I once owned a second signed copy of the Uncorrected Proof, but sold it to a collector in South Africa.

I have owned and sold numerous signed copies of THE DIAMOND HUNTERS. All below are first printings.

Doubleday published its first edition in 1972

Doubleday never reprinted its first edition or published any later editions, so all copies are first printings of the first edition.

I own 4 copies of the American first edition, 3 of which are pictured below.

Wilbur signed 1 of my copies

Many copies of this edition were remainder-sprayed by Doubleday. It is tough to find a copy in collectible condition that has not been remaindered. I have owned copies with remainder spray on the bottom page edges of the book. Below is an example of what remainder spray looks like on Doubleday copies of GOLD MINE, DIAMOND HUNTERS, and EAGLE IN THE SKY, with THE SUNBIRD in the middle without remainder spray.

The serialization from STAR WEEKLY The Canadian Magazine, April & May 1972. This is one of only 2 serializations of which I am aware. This serialization is extremely rare.