The points of issue
Dutton hardcover first as by Richard Bachman, full number line; the printed price on the front flap. Issued same day as 'Desperation' (September 24, 1996). Jacket art by Mark Ryden.
Is this the true first?
Dutton true first (as Bachman); companion volume to Desperation.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
BCE markings, no jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Regulators a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Dutton hardcover first as by Richard Bachman, full number line; the printed price on the front flap. Issued same day as 'Desperation' (September 24, 1996). Jacket art by Mark Ryden.
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. Dutton true first (as Bachman); companion volume to Desperation.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
BCE markings, no jacket price.
I have a first edition of The Regulators — 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.