The points of issue
First UK Macmillan hardcover, 1987: yellow cloth boards, dust jacket priced at the net price on the flap. First Culture novel and Banks's first SF under the 'M.' byline.
Is this the true first?
The UK Macmillan hardcover (1987) is the true first, preceding the US St. Martin's Press edition (also 1987). Collect the Macmillan for priority; uncorrected proofs exist and are not the trade first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The US St. Martin's edition (1987) is a later, separate setting and is bound in dark blue paper-covered boards with gilt spine titling — do not confuse it with the UK first. Confirm the Macmillan imprint and the yellow cloth binding for the true first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Consider Phlebas a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK Macmillan hardcover, 1987: yellow cloth boards, dust jacket priced at the net price on the flap. First Culture novel and Banks's first SF under the 'M.' byline.
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 Macmillan hardcover (1987) is the true first, preceding the US St. Martin's Press edition (also 1987). Collect the Macmillan for priority; uncorrected proofs exist and are not the trade first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The US St. Martin's edition (1987) is a later, separate setting and is bound in dark blue paper-covered boards with gilt spine titling — do not confuse it with the UK first. Confirm the Macmillan imprint and the yellow cloth binding for the true first.
I have a first edition of Consider Phlebas — 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.