5b George R. R. Martin, Bantam Books, Advance Reading Copy. 1996.
Notes
An Advance Reading Copy (ARC) of A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin is notable for its differences from the final published version, including the cover design, formatting, and sometimes even minor textual changes. Released in 1996 ahead of the book’s official publication, ARCs were distributed in limited numbers to booksellers, reviewers, and industry professionals to generate early buzz for what would become one of the most influential fantasy series of all time. These early editions are prized for their historical significance in the development of the series and for their rarity, as they were not intended for sale. Collectors and fans alike value them as a tangible piece of publishing history tied to one of the most iconic fantasy franchises in modern literature.
