The points of issue
First Tor hardcover, 2005, stating 'First Edition' with the full number line descending to 1 on the copyright page. Black cloth boards with pink spine lettering; priced black dust jacket. 364 pages.
Is this the true first?
The US Tor 2005 hardcover is the true first. The UK Orbit edition is a separate, later issue.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Science Fiction Book Club edition is a separate book-club issue: no printed price on the jacket, blind-stamp on the rear board, and it lacks the Tor number line. Confirm the trade jacket and the stated 'First Edition' with intact number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Spin a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First Tor hardcover, 2005, stating 'First Edition' with the full number line descending to 1 on the copyright page. Black cloth boards with pink spine lettering; priced black dust jacket. 364 pages.
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 2005 hardcover is the true first. The UK Orbit edition is a separate, later issue.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Science Fiction Book Club edition is a separate book-club issue: no printed price on the jacket, blind-stamp on the rear board, and it lacks the Tor number line. Confirm the trade jacket and the stated 'First Edition' with intact number line.
I have a first edition of Spin — 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.