The points of issue
Gollancz first hardcover, 1987, with the first-published statement and no reprint line; Josh Kirby dust-jacket art; characteristic yellow Gollancz boards. Fourth Discworld novel and the first centered on Death.
Is this the true first?
The Gollancz 1987 hardcover is the true first of the fourth Discworld novel. US and paperback editions follow.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition for the true first; later printings add a reprint statement. The yellow Gollancz boards and a clean first-printing line are the tells.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Mort a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Gollancz first hardcover, 1987, with the first-published statement and no reprint line; Josh Kirby dust-jacket art; characteristic yellow Gollancz boards. Fourth Discworld novel and the first centered on Death.
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. The Gollancz 1987 hardcover is the true first of the fourth Discworld novel. US and paperback editions follow.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition for the true first; later printings add a reprint statement. The yellow Gollancz boards and a clean first-printing line are the tells.
I have a first edition of Mort — 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.