The points of issue
First hardcover, Warner Books / Questar 1988; full number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; priced dust jacket with Don Maitz cover art; quarter blue cloth over grey boards. No later-printing statement.
Is this the true first?
The US Warner hardcover of 1988 is the true first. UK editions are later. Treat any claimed signed/limited issue with caution.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Science Fiction Book Club edition carries the rear-board blindstamp, lacks the priced jacket, and uses cheaper boards.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Cyteen a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First hardcover, Warner Books / Questar 1988; full number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; priced dust jacket with Don Maitz cover art; quarter blue cloth over grey boards. No later-printing statement.
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 US Warner hardcover of 1988 is the true first. UK editions are later. Treat any claimed signed/limited issue with caution.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Science Fiction Book Club edition carries the rear-board blindstamp, lacks the priced jacket, and uses cheaper boards.
I have a first edition of Cyteen — 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.