The points of issue
First UK Gollancz hardcover, 1990, in the yellow Gollancz jacket with the printed price on the flap. Foundational steampunk collaboration.
Is this the true first?
The UK Gollancz hardcover is the true first, preceding the US Bantam Spectra edition (1991).
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The US Bantam edition (1991) and US book-club editions are later; a club edition shows a rear-board gutter blindstamp and an unpriced jacket. Confirm the Gollancz imprint and the 1990 date.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Difference Engine a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK Gollancz hardcover, 1990, in the yellow Gollancz jacket with the printed price on the flap. Foundational steampunk collaboration.
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 UK Gollancz hardcover is the true first, preceding the US Bantam Spectra edition (1991).
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The US Bantam edition (1991) and US book-club editions are later; a club edition shows a rear-board gutter blindstamp and an unpriced jacket. Confirm the Gollancz imprint and the 1990 date.
I have a first edition of The Difference Engine — 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.