The points of issue
YA. US Delacorte Press hardcover published September 24, 2013; first printing states First Edition with a full number line.
Is this the true first?
US Delacorte edition is the true first, preceding the UK Gollancz edition of September 26, 2013 by two days; also note Gollancz issued a signed limited edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings differ on the copyright page; book club editions lack the price and full number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Steelheart (Reckoners 1) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: YA. US Delacorte Press hardcover published September 24, 2013; first printing states First Edition with a full number line.
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. US Delacorte edition is the true first, preceding the UK Gollancz edition of September 26, 2013 by two days; also note Gollancz issued a signed limited edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings differ on the copyright page; book club editions lack the price and full number line.
I have a first edition of Steelheart (Reckoners 1) — 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.