Identifying a True First of Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?

With first editions of Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? commanding $5,000–$20,000 unsigned (and far more signed), precise identification is essential. The true first printing from Doubleday must be distinguished from book club editions, later printings, and the many paperback reissues.

True First Edition Points

Publisher: Doubleday & Company, Garden City, New York Publication date: 1968 Copyright page: “FIRST EDITION” stated; no additional printing indicators Boards: Yellow cloth-covered boards Dust jacket: Original design, price present on front flap

Common Confusion Points

Book club editions: The Science Fiction Book Club issued an edition. Indicators include the absence of a price on the dust jacket flap, possible blind stamp or indentation on the rear board, and lighter-weight binding materials.

Blade Runner tie-in editions: After the 1982 film, numerous paperback editions appeared with “Blade Runner” branding. These are not collectible first editions.

Del Rey reissues: Ballantine/Del Rey published mass-market paperback editions that are sometimes confused with first editions. These are reissues, not firsts.

Later Doubleday printings: If present, additional printing indicators on the copyright page indicate a later printing. The first printing states “FIRST EDITION” without qualifications.

Condition Notes

The yellow cloth boards are prone to fading and staining. The dust jacket paper stock from this era is susceptible to edge wear and rubbing. Fine copies with bright, intact dust jackets are increasingly rare and command the highest premiums.