The points of issue
Viking 1983 first printing: copyright page reads 'First published in 1983 by The Viking Press' with no later-printing line. First-state text point: on page 205 'perceived' is misprinted as 'perceivced' (corrected in later printings). First-issue quarter grey cloth over black boards, priced jacket designed by Neil Stuart. Ahearn APG 006b.
Is this the true first?
US Viking 1983 is the true first; third novel of the Albany Cycle. The UK Allen Lane/Penguin edition is a separate printing.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions bear a blind-stamp and unpriced jacket; later printings add printing statements and correct the page-205 typo.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Ironweed a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Viking 1983 first printing: copyright page reads 'First published in 1983 by The Viking Press' with no later-printing line. First-state text point: on page 205 'perceived' is misprinted as 'perceivced' (corrected in later printings). First-issue quarter grey cloth over black boards, priced jacket designed by Neil Stuart. Ahearn APG 006b.
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 Viking 1983 is the true first; third novel of the Albany Cycle. The UK Allen Lane/Penguin edition is a separate printing.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions bear a blind-stamp and unpriced jacket; later printings add printing statements and correct the page-205 typo.
I have a first edition of Ironweed — 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.