The points of issue
Discworld 6. First impression of 6,700 copies published 10 November 1988 by Gollancz alone, the Colin Smythe co-publishing arrangement having ended. Original boards in dust jacket with Josh Kirby artwork. The first two reprints are also dated November 1988, so the first impression is identified by the complete absence of any reprint or later-impression statement, not by date.
Is this the true first?
UK Gollancz true first; US publication followed, the Roc NAL paperback appearing in June 1990.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The November 1988 reprints, BCA book club copies, and Corgi paperbacks are not firsts.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Wyrd Sisters a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Discworld 6. First impression of 6,700 copies published 10 November 1988 by Gollancz alone, the Colin Smythe co-publishing arrangement having ended. Original boards in dust jacket with Josh Kirby artwork. The first two reprints are also dated November 1988, so the first impression is identified by the complete absence of any reprint or later-impression statement, not by date.
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. UK Gollancz true first; US publication followed, the Roc NAL paperback appearing in June 1990.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The November 1988 reprints, BCA book club copies, and Corgi paperbacks are not firsts.
I have a first edition of Wyrd Sisters — 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.