The points of issue
Pocket Books mass-market paperback original (June 1989), first printing per full number line. Film novelization written from James Cameron's screenplay.
Is this the true first?
US Pocket paperback original (1989) is the true first; the UK Legend hardcover (London, 1989) is the first hardcover edition but follows the paperback.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
None.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Abyss (novelization) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Pocket Books mass-market paperback original (June 1989), first printing per full number line. Film novelization written from James Cameron's screenplay.
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 Pocket paperback original (1989) is the true first; the UK Legend hardcover (London, 1989) is the first hardcover edition but follows the paperback.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
None.
I have a first edition of The Abyss (novelization) — 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.