The points of issue
First UK Gollancz hardcover, 1986, in the characteristic yellow Gollancz jacket, with the printed price on the flap and no later-printing statement. Second Sprawl novel.
Is this the true first?
The UK Gollancz hardcover is the true first, preceding the US Arbor House edition (also 1986). Dealers consistently describe the Gollancz as the true first and the Arbor House as the first American edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
US Arbor House and US book-club editions are later; a club edition typically shows a rear-board gutter blindstamp and an unpriced jacket. The UK Gollancz has no priority club analog.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Count Zero a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK Gollancz hardcover, 1986, in the characteristic yellow Gollancz jacket, with the printed price on the flap and no later-printing statement. Second Sprawl novel.
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, preceding the US Arbor House edition (also 1986). Dealers consistently describe the Gollancz as the true first and the Arbor House as the first American edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
US Arbor House and US book-club editions are later; a club edition typically shows a rear-board gutter blindstamp and an unpriced jacket. The UK Gollancz has no priority club analog.
I have a first edition of Count Zero — 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.