The points of issue
First edition, Gnome Press, 1952 (Currey A1A). First-state points: red boards lettered in black with the nebula/Galaxy device on the front board and Edd Cartier jacket art; the first-state dust jacket lists 26 titles on the rear panel. Confirm the binding and jacket states against Currey on each copy, as multiple binding and jacket states exist.
Is this the true first?
The US Gnome Press edition is the true first. This is Volume 2 of the original Foundation trilogy.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The later Science Fiction Book Club omnibus is a reprint. Among Gnome copies, verify the Currey first-state points, since reissued bindings and a second-state jacket exist.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Foundation and Empire a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, Gnome Press, 1952 (Currey A1A). First-state points: red boards lettered in black with the nebula/Galaxy device on the front board and Edd Cartier jacket art; the first-state dust jacket lists 26 titles on the rear panel. Confirm the binding and jacket states against Currey on each copy, as multiple binding and jacket states exist.
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 Gnome Press edition is the true first. This is Volume 2 of the original Foundation trilogy.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The later Science Fiction Book Club omnibus is a reprint. Among Gnome copies, verify the Currey first-state points, since reissued bindings and a second-state jacket exist.
I have a first edition of Foundation and Empire — 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.