The points of issue
First printing has the number line ending in '1' and 'First Edition' / no later statement; first-issue jacket priced the printed price.
Is this the true first?
US St. Martin's Press is the true first, preceding the UK Weidenfeld & Nicolson (1975). Hugo, Nebula, and Locus winner. Scarce in fine condition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
SFBC: 'Book Club Edition' on flap, no the printed price, blind-stamped dot, cheaper bulkier paper.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Forever War a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing has the number line ending in '1' and 'First Edition' / no later statement; first-issue jacket priced the printed price.
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 St. Martin's Press is the true first, preceding the UK Weidenfeld & Nicolson (1975). Hugo, Nebula, and Locus winner. Scarce in fine condition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
SFBC: 'Book Club Edition' on flap, no the printed price, blind-stamped dot, cheaper bulkier paper.
I have a first edition of The Forever War — 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.