The points of issue
Discworld 14. Victor Gollancz, London, 1992; ISBN 0-575-05223-9. Copyright page states first publication in Great Britain 1992 with no number line and no later-impression statement. Original boards in the Josh Kirby dust jacket with price intact on the front flap.
Is this the true first?
UK Gollancz is the true first; US publication followed.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later Gollancz impressions are marked on the copyright page; book club issues lack the priced jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Lords and Ladies a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Discworld 14. Victor Gollancz, London, 1992; ISBN 0-575-05223-9. Copyright page states first publication in Great Britain 1992 with no number line and no later-impression statement. Original boards in the Josh Kirby dust jacket with price intact on the front flap.
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; US publication followed.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later Gollancz impressions are marked on the copyright page; book club issues lack the priced jacket.
I have a first edition of Lords and Ladies — 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.