The points of issue
Doubleday first printing: copyright page states "First Edition" with the dated line "June 1994" and the complete Doubleday number line including the digit 1 (scrambled sequence 1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2, not a line ending in 1). First-state dust jacket carries the printed retail price on the front flap.
Is this the true first?
The US Doubleday edition (June 1994) is the true first. The UK Century edition also appeared in 1994 but follows the US printing.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club editions lack a price on the jacket flap, may print "Book Club Edition" on the flap, run smaller and lighter than the trade first, and usually show a blind-stamped dot or square on the rear board.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Chamber a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Doubleday first printing: copyright page states "First Edition" with the dated line "June 1994" and the complete Doubleday number line including the digit 1 (scrambled sequence 1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2, not a line ending in 1). First-state dust jacket carries the printed retail price on the front flap.
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 Doubleday edition (June 1994) is the true first. The UK Century edition also appeared in 1994 but follows the US printing.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club editions lack a price on the jacket flap, may print "Book Club Edition" on the flap, run smaller and lighter than the trade first, and usually show a blind-stamped dot or square on the rear board.
I have a first edition of The Chamber — 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.