The points of issue
Discworld 9. Published 16 August 1990 as a large-format volume illustrated throughout by Josh Kirby, in two simultaneous formats: a hardcover of 4,200 copies in black boards with gilt spine lettering and a Kirby-illustrated dust jacket, and a large-format paperback of 50,500 copies. Reprinted September 1990; the first printing carries no reprint statement. The hardcover is the collected format.
Is this the true first?
UK Gollancz illustrated large-format first is the true first, hardcover and paperback issued the same day. Later unillustrated text-only editions, beginning with the 1991 VGSF paperback, are distinct.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Unillustrated reprints, the 2010 small-format Illustrated Eric reissue, and BCA book club copies are not the first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Eric (Faust Eric) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Discworld 9. Published 16 August 1990 as a large-format volume illustrated throughout by Josh Kirby, in two simultaneous formats: a hardcover of 4,200 copies in black boards with gilt spine lettering and a Kirby-illustrated dust jacket, and a large-format paperback of 50,500 copies. Reprinted September 1990; the first printing carries no reprint statement. The hardcover is the collected format.
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. UK Gollancz illustrated large-format first is the true first, hardcover and paperback issued the same day. Later unillustrated text-only editions, beginning with the 1991 VGSF paperback, are distinct.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Unillustrated reprints, the 2010 small-format Illustrated Eric reissue, and BCA book club copies are not the first.
I have a first edition of Eric (Faust Eric) — 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.