The points of issue
True first is the Philtrum Press limited edition, 1984, limited to 1,250 numbered copies (1,000 in black, 250 in red asbestos slipcase), illustrated by Kenny Ray Linkous. Signed/numbered limitation page. The trade first is the later Viking 1987 edition with number line.
Is this the true first?
Philtrum Press 1984 limited is the true first; the Viking 1987 trade edition is the first trade edition (separate points: number line, the printed price jacket). Collectors distinguish the scarce signed Philtrum limited from the common Viking trade.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Any trade hardcover is the Viking 1987 (or later); BCE Viking copies lack the jacket price and have the rear-board blind-stamp. The Philtrum is identifiable by its limitation/numbering page.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Eyes of the Dragon a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: True first is the Philtrum Press limited edition, 1984, limited to 1,250 numbered copies (1,000 in black, 250 in red asbestos slipcase), illustrated by Kenny Ray Linkous. Signed/numbered limitation page. The trade first is the later Viking 1987 edition with 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. Philtrum Press 1984 limited is the true first; the Viking 1987 trade edition is the first trade edition (separate points: number line, the printed price jacket). Collectors distinguish the scarce signed Philtrum limited from the common Viking trade.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Any trade hardcover is the Viking 1987 (or later); BCE Viking copies lack the jacket price and have the rear-board blind-stamp. The Philtrum is identifiable by its limitation/numbering page.
I have a first edition of The Eyes of the Dragon — 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.