The points of issue
Tor hardcover (published November 1993); first printing with the 'First Edition' statement and a complete number line ending in 1; priced dust jacket. Publisher's boards.
Is this the true first?
The US Tor 1993 hardcover is the true first; the UK Legend (1993) edition is a separate printing. Tor's first-edition statement plus the number line marks the first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Science Fiction Book Club edition: no price on the jacket, a blind-stamp on the rear board, and it lacks the Tor number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Moving Mars a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Tor hardcover (published November 1993); first printing with the 'First Edition' statement and a complete number line ending in 1; priced dust jacket. Publisher's boards.
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 Tor 1993 hardcover is the true first; the UK Legend (1993) edition is a separate printing. Tor's first-edition statement plus the number line marks the first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Science Fiction Book Club edition: no price on the jacket, a blind-stamp on the rear board, and it lacks the Tor number line.
I have a first edition of Moving Mars — 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.