The points of issue
Random House 1984 first printing: copyright page states 'First Edition' together with a number line whose lowest number is 2 (reading 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9), per Random House practice of this period. First-issue cloth with priced jacket.
Is this the true first?
US Random House 1984 is the true first. The Franklin Library signed limited edition is a separate issue.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions lack the 'First Edition' statement and number line, carry a rear-board blind-stamp, and have an unpriced or clipped jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Foreign Affairs a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Random House 1984 first printing: copyright page states 'First Edition' together with a number line whose lowest number is 2 (reading 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9), per Random House practice of this period. First-issue cloth with priced jacket.
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. US Random House 1984 is the true first. The Franklin Library signed limited edition is a separate issue.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions lack the 'First Edition' statement and number line, carry a rear-board blind-stamp, and have an unpriced or clipped jacket.
I have a first edition of Foreign Affairs — 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.