The points of issue
First hardcover from Baen, March 1994; first printing with the number line ending in 1; cover art by Gary Ruddell. Baen hardcovers of this title are scarce.
Is this the true first?
The US Baen 1994 hardcover is the true first; Baen issued the hardcover ahead of the mass-market paperback. A later Easton Press leather edition exists. Later omnibus (Miles Errant) is 'first thus'.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No prominent book-club edition; ensure the Baen hardcover number line ends in 1. Mass-market paperback printings are later.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Mirror Dance a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First hardcover from Baen, March 1994; first printing with the number line ending in 1; cover art by Gary Ruddell. Baen hardcovers of this title are scarce.
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. The US Baen 1994 hardcover is the true first; Baen issued the hardcover ahead of the mass-market paperback. A later Easton Press leather edition exists. Later omnibus (Miles Errant) is 'first thus'.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No prominent book-club edition; ensure the Baen hardcover number line ends in 1. Mass-market paperback printings are later.
I have a first edition of Mirror Dance — 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.