The points of issue
Story collection. Single Phantasia print run of 3,475 copies: 3,000 trade copies and 475 signed/numbered copies in publisher's slipcase, plus 26 lettered copies. Jacket art by Carl Lundgren.
Is this the true first?
US Phantasia hardcover (1989) is the true first; the signed/numbered slipcased issue is the deluxe state. The Tor trade edition followed in 1990.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
None.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Folk of the Fringe a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Story collection. Single Phantasia print run of 3,475 copies: 3,000 trade copies and 475 signed/numbered copies in publisher's slipcase, plus 26 lettered copies. Jacket art by Carl Lundgren.
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 Phantasia hardcover (1989) is the true first; the signed/numbered slipcased issue is the deluxe state. The Tor trade edition followed in 1990.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
None.
I have a first edition of The Folk of the Fringe — 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.