Probably the most commonly asked question in bookselling is how to identify a first edition book. There are some general rules on identifying firsts

What is a First Edition?

An edition represents all printings of the book with one typeset and with no significant text alterations between those printings. A printing is a single batch printing of an edition. For example the first print run of a book of 100,000 copies is a First Edition First Printing. In most modern firsts this can be identified by a numberline

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2 1

Or by a Publishing Date

First Published 1956


The second printing of a book will then show


10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2


3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2


Noting the "1" is missing from the numberline.


First Published 1956

Second Impression 1957


This shows the reprinting of the first edition.


So as a general rule any further publishing dates will show it is a reprinted edition. On numberlines, the number 2 will indicate a 2nd Printing, a 3 a 3rd printing and so on.


Bear in mind some books may appear to be first editions and are not. Modern Book Club Editions can be especially confusing. Harry Potter US BCE's for example, have an identical copyright page to the true Trade Printings.  First edition books may have issue points you will need to look for, for example - the price printed on the dustjacket. I find comparing my books to others listed on the internet a good starting point.


Learn to research your book thoroughly first before selling, or buying for that matter. Try abebooks, you will find a good range of experienced booksellers.
While an inexperienced seller on eBay may not be trying to mislead you, they simply may not be aware of the correct edition, so you should always research first.

If you have any questions please visit us at Crickhollow Books