The Mote in God's Eye (1974) Signed First Edition Reference

The Mote in God’s Eye is frequently cited as the greatest first contact novel in science fiction. Published by Simon & Schuster in 1974, the Niven-Pournelle collaboration depicts humanity’s first encounter with the Moties — an alien species whose biology drives them through relentless cycles of population growth, technological advancement, collapse, and rebuilding.

First Edition Identification

Publisher: Simon & Schuster, New York Publication date: 1974 Format: Hardcover in dust jacket

Signed Copy Market Values

• Dual-signed first edition (Niven and Pournelle), fine/fine: $200–$500
• Single-signed first edition: $75–$200
• Unsigned first edition: $20–$50

Dual-signed copies — signed by both Niven and Pournelle — carry a significant premium over single-signed copies. Pournelle’s death in 2017 fixed the supply of dual-signed copies permanently.