The points of issue
First UK Gollancz hardcover stating 'First published in Great Britain in 2000 by Victor Gollancz' on the copyright page with no later-impression statement; a complete number line descending to 1 confirms the first impression; priced jacket on the front flap. Reynolds's debut novel; reportedly a small hardcover print run.
Is this the true first?
The UK Gollancz hardcover is the true first; the US Ace edition (2001) is a later, separately set printing. A Gollancz trade paperback was issued around the same time, but the hardcover holds priority.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The US Ace paperback and any US book-club issues are later. There is no priority book-club analog ahead of the UK hardcover. Confirm the Gollancz imprint, the 2000 'First published' statement, and the number line including 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Revelation Space a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK Gollancz hardcover stating 'First published in Great Britain in 2000 by Victor Gollancz' on the copyright page with no later-impression statement; a complete number line descending to 1 confirms the first impression; priced jacket on the front flap. Reynolds's debut novel; reportedly a small hardcover print run.
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 UK Gollancz hardcover is the true first; the US Ace edition (2001) is a later, separately set printing. A Gollancz trade paperback was issued around the same time, but the hardcover holds priority.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The US Ace paperback and any US book-club issues are later. There is no priority book-club analog ahead of the UK hardcover. Confirm the Gollancz imprint, the 2000 'First published' statement, and the number line including 1.
I have a first edition of Revelation Space — 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.