The points of issue
First Tor hardcover, 2012 (full title 'Redshirts: A Novel with Three Codas', ISBN 978-0-7653-1699-8); states 'First Edition: June 2012' with a full number line ending in 1; priced dust jacket. Author-signed copies of this first printing also circulate.
Is this the true first?
The US Tor 2012 hardcover is the true first; the UK Gollancz (2012) edition is a separate first issued in its own market.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No prominent book club edition. Verify the Tor 'First Edition: June 2012' statement, the number line ending in 1, and the printed jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Redshirts a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First Tor hardcover, 2012 (full title 'Redshirts: A Novel with Three Codas', ISBN 978-0-7653-1699-8); states 'First Edition: June 2012' with a full number line ending in 1; priced dust jacket. Author-signed copies of this first printing also circulate.
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 US Tor 2012 hardcover is the true first; the UK Gollancz (2012) edition is a separate first issued in its own market.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No prominent book club edition. Verify the Tor 'First Edition: June 2012' statement, the number line ending in 1, and the printed jacket price.
I have a first edition of Redshirts — 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.