The points of issue
"First Edition" stated on the copyright page, with no later printing indicated; jacket priced. Doubleday's first-edition convention for this period also shows a printing code on the last text page.
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday first hardcover (Garden City, October 1968). Expanded from the August 1967 Galaxy novella, which precedes it in magazine form. UK appeared as The Anvil of Time.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club edition lacks the stated "First Edition" and the priced jacket, and typically carries a blind stamp (gutter dot) on the rear board.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Hawksbill Station a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: "First Edition" stated on the copyright page, with no later printing indicated; jacket priced. Doubleday's first-edition convention for this period also shows a printing code on the last text page.
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 Doubleday first hardcover (Garden City, October 1968). Expanded from the August 1967 Galaxy novella, which precedes it in magazine form. UK appeared as The Anvil of Time.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club edition lacks the stated "First Edition" and the priced jacket, and typically carries a blind stamp (gutter dot) on the rear board.
I have a first edition of Hawksbill Station — 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.