The points of issue
Hardcover in boards with gilt spine, in dust jacket with the price present on the flap. First impression shows a full descending number line ending in 1 on the copyright page.
Is this the true first?
The UK Hamish Hamilton edition of 1993 is the true first. The US Penguin edition followed and is not the originating edition; the exact US imprint and year of issue should not be relied on without further confirmation.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later impressions break the number line or state a higher impression.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The House of Doctor Dee a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Hardcover in boards with gilt spine, in dust jacket with the price present on the flap. First impression shows a full descending number line ending in 1 on the copyright page.
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 Hamish Hamilton edition of 1993 is the true first. The US Penguin edition followed and is not the originating edition; the exact US imprint and year of issue should not be relied on without further confirmation.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later impressions break the number line or state a higher impression.
I have a first edition of The House of Doctor Dee — 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.