The points of issue
Doubleday hardcover stating 'First Edition' on the copyright page with no number line; printed price present on the dust jacket front flap; publisher's boards.
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday 1972 is the standard true first. The UK Victor Gollancz edition (1972) is a separate near-simultaneous first issue. Confirm the Doubleday 'First Edition' statement for the US true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Doubleday Book Club edition shows no printed price on the jacket flap, a blind-stamp on the rear board, thinner boards, and 'Book Club Edition' on the jacket; its copyright page lacks the 'First Edition' line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Gods Themselves a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Doubleday hardcover stating 'First Edition' on the copyright page with no number line; printed price present on the dust jacket front flap; publisher's boards.
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 Doubleday 1972 is the standard true first. The UK Victor Gollancz edition (1972) is a separate near-simultaneous first issue. Confirm the Doubleday 'First Edition' statement for the US true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Doubleday Book Club edition shows no printed price on the jacket flap, a blind-stamp on the rear board, thinner boards, and 'Book Club Edition' on the jacket; its copyright page lacks the 'First Edition' line.
I have a first edition of The Gods Themselves — 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.