Identify First Editions

Learn how to identify a first edition book!

What is a first edition?

This is the very first printing of a book.  Many books have additional printings, even first editions may have later dates that are not true first editions and will affect value.

Identify First editions

There is a problem with many in being able to correctly identify a true first edition  Not all publishers use the same method of identifying their editions and this may be very confusing to the beginner or even the seasoned collector.  Here you will find information to determine the editions, publications, or printings of books used by publishers. 

Please check back when this page is completed.  

D. Appleton-Century Co.
The number one enclosed in parentheses (1) is found on the the last page of text of first printing copies.  I.e. (1) is first edition, (2) is second, etc.  Occasionally used "first edition" instead.  1980 to present, using a number row. 

Alcoholics Anonymous

World War Two

Art and Craft

Magazines

Civil War

Children's

Fiction & Nonfiction