The points of issue
First printing has the full number line ending in '1' and 'First Edition' stated; jacket priced the printed price. (Note: a signed/limited 'author's preferred text' edition came much later — 2011, Headline/Morrow — and is a 'first thus,' not the true first.)
Is this the true first?
US William Morrow hardcover is the true first, near-simultaneous with the UK Headline (2001); the US Morrow is generally taken as the trade true first. Hugo, Nebula, and Locus winner.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions lack the printed price and carry blind-stamps. The 2011 'Author's Preferred Text' is a later expanded edition, not the first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of American Gods a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing has the full number line ending in '1' and 'First Edition' stated; jacket priced the printed price. (Note: a signed/limited 'author's preferred text' edition came much later — 2011, Headline/Morrow — and is a 'first thus,' not the true 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. US William Morrow hardcover is the true first, near-simultaneous with the UK Headline (2001); the US Morrow is generally taken as the trade true first. Hugo, Nebula, and Locus winner.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions lack the printed price and carry blind-stamps. The 2011 'Author's Preferred Text' is a later expanded edition, not the first.
I have a first edition of American Gods — 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.