The points of issue
The first printing follows Random House practice of the period: the words First Edition together with a descending number line, in an oversized format illustrated by the Brothers Hildebrandt (two full-page black-and-white plates plus a folding color plate), with the printed price present on the jacket. Quarter black cloth over papered boards with a stamped initial on the front board. Brooks's debut.
Is this the true first?
The US Random House edition is the true first and Brooks's debut, a landmark of commercial epic fantasy.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Science Fiction Book Club printing is smaller, carries a blind gutter code on the rear board, has an unpriced jacket, and omits the First Edition statement. Confusion is common given the large book-club run.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Sword of Shannara a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: The first printing follows Random House practice of the period: the words First Edition together with a descending number line, in an oversized format illustrated by the Brothers Hildebrandt (two full-page black-and-white plates plus a folding color plate), with the printed price present on the jacket. Quarter black cloth over papered boards with a stamped initial on the front board. Brooks's debut.
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 US Random House edition is the true first and Brooks's debut, a landmark of commercial epic fantasy.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Science Fiction Book Club printing is smaller, carries a blind gutter code on the rear board, has an unpriced jacket, and omits the First Edition statement. Confusion is common given the large book-club run.
I have a first edition of The Sword of Shannara — 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.