The points of issue
First printing has the number line ending in '1' / no later statement; first-issue jacket priced the printed price.
Is this the true first?
US St. Martin's Press is the true first, preceding the UK Gollancz (1977). Hugo, Nebula, and Campbell winner.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
SFBC: 'Book Club Edition' on flap, no the printed price, blind-stamped dot, cheaper paper.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Gateway a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing has the number line ending in '1' / no later statement; first-issue jacket priced the printed price.
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 St. Martin's Press is the true first, preceding the UK Gollancz (1977). Hugo, Nebula, and Campbell winner.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
SFBC: 'Book Club Edition' on flap, no the printed price, blind-stamped dot, cheaper paper.
I have a first edition of Gateway — 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.