The points of issue
First edition states 'First Edition' on the copyright page with '1969' on the title page, and carries a Doubleday gutter/printing code on the final text page consistent with the first printing. Jacket priced on the flap.
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday 1969 is the true first; UK Rapp & Whiting 1970 follows.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Doubleday book-club edition lacks the 'First Edition' statement, has a blindstamp, no flap price, and a different gutter code. Common.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Ubik a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First edition states 'First Edition' on the copyright page with '1969' on the title page, and carries a Doubleday gutter/printing code on the final text page consistent with the first printing. Jacket priced on the flap.
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 1969 is the true first; UK Rapp & Whiting 1970 follows.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Doubleday book-club edition lacks the 'First Edition' statement, has a blindstamp, no flap price, and a different gutter code. Common.
I have a first edition of Ubik — 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.