The points of issue
First UK edition published 15 June 1981 by Colin Smythe in a run of 1,001 copies; dark green cloth-patterned paper-covered boards, dust jacket with illustration by Tim White. Proto-Discworld disc-world concept; scarce.
Is this the true first?
UK Colin Smythe true first. The US St. Martin's Press edition of 2,000 copies also appeared in 1981, produced in the UK as part of the same Smythe print run, in black cloth-patterned paper boards with its own jacket.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings differ.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Strata a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK edition published 15 June 1981 by Colin Smythe in a run of 1,001 copies; dark green cloth-patterned paper-covered boards, dust jacket with illustration by Tim White. Proto-Discworld disc-world concept; scarce.
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. UK Colin Smythe true first. The US St. Martin's Press edition of 2,000 copies also appeared in 1981, produced in the UK as part of the same Smythe print run, in black cloth-patterned paper boards with its own jacket.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings differ.
I have a first edition of Strata — 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.