The Pb/Hb has the 2000 Pb copyright page, dated "2000", with the Pb ISBN. It's the pages of the 2000 Pb 2nd impression in hardcovers. So, indeed, not sure where that sits in the picture.

I'll get some pictures up at the weekend if I get the chance...

BH

Karl wrote:
My odds should be about 1 in 5 with this edition. If anyone sees a fine copy with the updated jacket, let me know!

This looks to be what you are looking for.

eBay Item #152205672267

The pictures with the listing are interesting as they show the copyright page, and ISBN numbers and it is the 2nd Impression paperback bound as a hardback. Just checked and it appears to now be sold.

This has been a very interesting thread, Karl thanks for posting

My pleasure!

I have also read that the first printing had a pullout map (colorized), whereas subsequent printings have it as front and back endpapers.

My first edition of the 1998 just has the colour endpapers but the first of the 2004 has the pullout map

Thanks for clarifying.

Hi guys,
I'm sorry to bring this old and useful thread back to the surface, but I would like to share with you some details of the S editions you talked about. I have three hardback copies, two dated 1998 and one 2000.
As previously noted, the main differences seem to be the spine design, the prices shown in the front flap of the dustwrapper and the details on the copyright page (number line, ISBN).

Do you know if other HB variants exist?

I understand the difference on the jacket in regard to the price being different depending on when you bought the book, but apart from that the two ‘98 books you have are the same aren’t they? I don’t believe they are variants but one has quite a faded spine and that’s it, right?

I agree, the one on the left has a severely faded spine.
The one on the right was a tough one for me to find, personally.

huan68 wrote:

I understand the difference on the jacket in regard to the price being different depending on when you bought the book, but apart from that the two ‘98 books you have are the same aren’t they? I don’t believe they are variants but one has quite a faded spine and that’s it, right?

I think the one without the price on the dust-jacket may be a book club edition.