The points of issue
US Tor hardcover, published October 14, 2008. 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page with a full number line including the 1 (0 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1).
Is this the true first?
US Tor true first; UK Gollancz follows.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings drop the 1 from the number line; book-club copies differ.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Hero of Ages (Mistborn 3) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US Tor hardcover, published October 14, 2008. 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page with a full number line including the 1 (0 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1).
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 Tor true first; UK Gollancz follows.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings drop the 1 from the number line; book-club copies differ.
I have a first edition of The Hero of Ages (Mistborn 3) — 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.