The points of issue
Tor first hardcover with a complete number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; jacket carries the printed price. Stephan Martiniere jacket art. Sanderson's debut novel.
Is this the true first?
The US Tor hardcover is the true first; the UK Gollancz followed.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Science Fiction Book Club edition is smaller, carries a blind-stamped gutter-code dot on the rear board, has an unpriced jacket, and lacks the complete number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Elantris a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Tor first hardcover with a complete number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; jacket carries the printed price. Stephan Martiniere jacket art. Sanderson's debut 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 US Tor hardcover is the true first; the UK Gollancz followed.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Science Fiction Book Club edition is smaller, carries a blind-stamped gutter-code dot on the rear board, has an unpriced jacket, and lacks the complete number line.
I have a first edition of Elantris — 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.