The points of issue
Orbit (Hachette Book Group) hardcover, published May 2012. First printing has the full number line ending in 1 on the copyright page and a priced dust jacket. Publisher's boards.
Is this the true first?
The US Orbit hardcover (released May 22, 2012) is the true first; the UK Orbit hardcover followed within days (May 24, 2012), so it is effectively near-simultaneous but slightly later. For the true first seek the US Orbit hardcover, first printing.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Watch for any later book club printing: typically lacks a printed jacket price and may show a blind-stamp on the rear board and an incomplete number line. The trade first printing carries the full number line ending in 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of 2312 a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Orbit (Hachette Book Group) hardcover, published May 2012. First printing has the full number line ending in 1 on the copyright page and a priced dust jacket. Publisher's boards.
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 Orbit hardcover (released May 22, 2012) is the true first; the UK Orbit hardcover followed within days (May 24, 2012), so it is effectively near-simultaneous but slightly later. For the true first seek the US Orbit hardcover, first printing.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Watch for any later book club printing: typically lacks a printed jacket price and may show a blind-stamp on the rear board and an incomplete number line. The trade first printing carries the full number line ending in 1.
I have a first edition of 2312 — 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.