The points of issue
Story collection, Arbor House hardcover. First-printing copies carry a number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; introduction by Bruce Sterling. Later printings remove the low digits from the number line.
Is this the true first?
US Arbor House hardcover (1986) is the true first edition; the Victor Gollancz UK hardcover (also 1986) follows. First collection of Gibson's short fiction.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A Science Fiction Book Club issue exists, identifiable by a blind gutter dot on the rear board and no price on the jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Burning Chrome a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Story collection, Arbor House hardcover. First-printing copies carry a number line ending in 1 on the copyright page; introduction by Bruce Sterling. Later printings remove the low digits from the number line.
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 Arbor House hardcover (1986) is the true first edition; the Victor Gollancz UK hardcover (also 1986) follows. First collection of Gibson's short fiction.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A Science Fiction Book Club issue exists, identifiable by a blind gutter dot on the rear board and no price on the jacket.
I have a first edition of Burning Chrome — 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.