The points of issue
First UK Gollancz hardcover stating 'First published in Great Britain in 2001 by Victor Gollancz' on the copyright page with no later-impression statement; a complete number line descending to 1 confirms the first impression; priced jacket on the front flap. BSFA Award winner; a standalone set in the Revelation Space universe.
Is this the true first?
The UK Gollancz hardcover is the true first; the US Ace paperback (2002) follows. The hardcover holds priority over the Gollancz trade paperback.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
US and later editions and paperbacks are not the first. Confirm the Gollancz imprint, the 2001 'First published in Great Britain' statement, and the number line including 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Chasm City a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK Gollancz hardcover stating 'First published in Great Britain in 2001 by Victor Gollancz' on the copyright page with no later-impression statement; a complete number line descending to 1 confirms the first impression; priced jacket on the front flap. BSFA Award winner; a standalone set in the Revelation Space universe.
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 UK Gollancz hardcover is the true first; the US Ace paperback (2002) follows. The hardcover holds priority over the Gollancz trade paperback.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
US and later editions and paperbacks are not the first. Confirm the Gollancz imprint, the 2001 'First published in Great Britain' statement, and the number line including 1.
I have a first edition of Chasm City — 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.