The points of issue
The true first edition of A Game of Thrones signed first by George R.R. Martin is identified by: Bantam Spectra 1996.
Commonly confused with
Book-club editions and later printings reprint the text but are not the first edition and are far less collectible. Use the points above to be certain — see book-club edition vs. first edition.
Where it sits
A Game of Thrones signed first is a Tier 2 (low-to-mid four-figure) title in the New Mexico Book Value Index. The 1996 Bantam Spectra first launched A Song of Ice and Fire; early signed copies carry a scarcity premium.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Game of Thrones signed first a first edition?
Look for these first-printing points: Bantam Spectra 1996 Later printings and book-club editions lack them.
How do I tell a first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention, and confirm the named point of issue above. A number line, stated edition, or dated first printing is the key.
Is a book-club edition the same as a first edition?
No. Book-club editions (BCE) reprint the text but are not the true first edition and are far less collectible. Check the points of issue above to be sure.
I have a first edition of A Game of Thrones signed first — what should I do with it?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque in any condition and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. If you'd rather sell, see the George R.R. Martin collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.