The points of issue
First printing has the full number line ending in '1' and 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page. Jacket priced the printed price.
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday trade hardcover is the true first, preceding the UK Headline (1990). Hugo winner. There is also a Easton Press/leather 'first thus' that is not the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Doubleday/SFBC book-club edition: no price on flap, 'Book Club Edition' or gutter code, blind-stamp on rear board, lighter and cheaper paper. Very common; small fraction of trade-first value.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Hyperion a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing has the full number line ending in '1' and 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page. 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 Doubleday trade hardcover is the true first, preceding the UK Headline (1990). Hugo winner. There is also a Easton Press/leather 'first thus' that is not the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Doubleday/SFBC book-club edition: no price on flap, 'Book Club Edition' or gutter code, blind-stamp on rear board, lighter and cheaper paper. Very common; small fraction of trade-first value.
I have a first edition of Hyperion — 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.