The points of issue
First edition, first printing: Walker & Company, 1995, with the full number line '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1' on the copyright page (the '1' present). First-issue dust jacket priced (the printed price). Small format hardcover.
Is this the true first?
US Walker 1995 is the true first, preceding the UK Fourth Estate edition (1996, which carries the longer subtitle). Later illustrated editions (1998) are textually expanded and not the first. Signed Sobel copies desirable.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions lack the full '1' number line and carry unpriced jackets. The 1998 'Illustrated Longitude' is a distinct later edition, not the first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Longitude a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition, first printing: Walker & Company, 1995, with the full number line '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1' on the copyright page (the '1' present). First-issue dust jacket priced (the printed price). Small format hardcover.
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 Walker 1995 is the true first, preceding the UK Fourth Estate edition (1996, which carries the longer subtitle). Later illustrated editions (1998) are textually expanded and not the first. Signed Sobel copies desirable.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions lack the full '1' number line and carry unpriced jackets. The 1998 'Illustrated Longitude' is a distinct later edition, not the first.
I have a first edition of Longitude — 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.