The points of issue
First UK edition, published 10 May 1990 by Victor Gollancz, London. Original red cloth with spine lettered in black; pictorial dust jacket illustrated by Chris Moore, priced 12.95 pounds on the front flap. Copyright page states first publication with no later-impression statement.
Is this the true first?
UK Gollancz is the true first; the US Workman edition followed in late September 1990. The premier Pratchett and Gaiman collaboration.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The US Workman edition and BCA book club printings are not the true first; club issues lack the Gollancz jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Good Omens (with Neil Gaiman) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition, published 10 May 1990 by Victor Gollancz, London. Original red cloth with spine lettered in black; pictorial dust jacket illustrated by Chris Moore, priced 12.95 pounds on the front flap. Copyright page states first publication with no later-impression statement.
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 is the true first; the US Workman edition followed in late September 1990. The premier Pratchett and Gaiman collaboration.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The US Workman edition and BCA book club printings are not the true first; club issues lack the Gollancz jacket price.
I have a first edition of Good Omens (with Neil Gaiman) — 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.