The points of issue
True world first is the UK Victor Gollancz 1973 edition (June 1973), in the characteristic yellow boards with Gollancz typographic jacket, price on the flap. The US Harcourt Brace Jovanovich edition followed in August 1973.
Is this the true first?
Gollancz UK (June 1973) precedes the US Harcourt edition (August 1973) by about two months. Hugo, Nebula, and BSFA winner. Collectors target the Gollancz for the world first; the Harcourt is the first US edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The US Science Fiction Book Club edition carries the rear-board blind-stamp and no printed price and is common. The US Harcourt is a genuine US first but not the world first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Rendezvous with Rama a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: True world first is the UK Victor Gollancz 1973 edition (June 1973), in the characteristic yellow boards with Gollancz typographic jacket, price on the flap. The US Harcourt Brace Jovanovich edition followed in August 1973.
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. Gollancz UK (June 1973) precedes the US Harcourt edition (August 1973) by about two months. Hugo, Nebula, and BSFA winner. Collectors target the Gollancz for the world first; the Harcourt is the first US edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The US Science Fiction Book Club edition carries the rear-board blind-stamp and no printed price and is common. The US Harcourt is a genuine US first but not the world first.
I have a first edition of Rendezvous with Rama — 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.