A first edition book is almost always a highly prized possession, but identifying a first edition book is not always an easy task.
It is, however, something that every book collector needs to know. Figuring out how to accomplish this task is where the confusion begins.
I first embarked on the endeavor to learn all I could about true first editions because I wanted to be sure I was identifying my books correctly.
I have to admit, though, my initial response was "Huh?" Hopefully, I have learned enough to make the process a little easier for you.
Obviously, the easiest way to identify a first edition book is to look for the words "First Edition" written on the copyright page.
Unfortunately, this does not always settle the issue. You will find that "First Edition" may simply mean the first edition printed by this specific publisher.
Book publishers often have their own unique way of identifying their first edition books and there are some facts that you should know
before you can comfortably know it is indeed a true first edition.
Most modern publishers will state "First Edition" on the copyright page.
And it is certainly helpful when they also include the original copyright date along with their own copyright date.
But again, not all do so and as I said previously some publishers handle dating differently.
Some publishers use a number or letter system to designate first editions.
Publishers using this system, have number lines similar to "10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1".
If there is a "1" in the number line the book is indeed a first edition.
If the 1 is missing, then that book is probably a second printing, which is revealed by the remaining
2. These numbers may not always be in order, but the lowest number shown always indicates which printing the book is.
The highest number represents the anticipated number of printings that will be made.
Regardless of the way the numbers appear, you must look for the "1" or the lowest number or letter in the line to identify which printing the book is.
Those using a letter system may use letters such as "A B C D E" where the "A" would be indicative of a first edition.
Also, some publishers will simply state "1st-ed".
To add to the confusion, first printing and first edition don't always coincide.
First printing means the first print run of a particular edition. Often an edition will be printed into several runs.
Again, just because a book says it's a first edition doesn't mean it's a first printing or "True First".
If a book states "First Edition" but also has a number line that doesn't include a "1" than that book is a later printing of the first edition.
In order to identify which printing it is, always look at the lowest number shown in the number line.
In older books, sometimes there is no possible way to know if you have a first edition by just looking at the copyright page.
This is where research and experience are needed. One must become familiar with the characteristic of the first editions of that specific book.
In your research, pay attention to the color of the cover and the print on the cover.
Knowing the size of the book, the material of the cover and the number of pages, all help in identifying it as the first edition you are comparing it to in your research.
Sometimes the number of copyright lines will also give you a clue as to whether or not you are holding a true first edition.
One more thing, if the date of copyright on the copyright page is the same as the date on the title page, you know you have a first edition.
"Book Club Editions" are nice readable copies and great for price, but they are definitely not for collecting.
These books are usually identified as such, but they are also easily recognizable in the fact that they will probably feel cheap.
They are lighter in weight and the paper of poor quality which yellows easily and feels rough.
One good clue on an older book with a dust jacket, is if there is a price on the front inner flap of the jacket, it is possibly a first edition.
However, if there is no price on the jacket, than it is most likely a "Book Club Edition". Most collectors will recognize a Book Club Edition just by feel.
The troubling thing in all of this is that there are exceptions to these rules adding to the confusion you might already be experiencing.
Some publishers will use the words First Edition in place of the number 1.
Thus a book stating "First Edition" starting at the number 2 is a first edition, first state book. This is where research will be your best bet.
There are many resources available on line to help you. Research is a wonderful way to gain experience in identifying first editions.
Further, an old or out of print book doesn't necessarily mean a valuable book.
The value most often depends on the condition of the book and other distinguishing factors.
Book Club editions are usually worthless to collectors and are sometimes disguised as first editions.
This is again where research and the experience that comes with using it can help you.
Certainly identifying these books can be a challenge, but very rewarding when a true 1st edition is discovered.
However, here at Pleasant Land Books, we believe the real value of a book is found in its content.
We strive to bring you quality, wholesome books that can be adventurous, influential and educational.
We believe the written word is the most effective means of communicating ideas and the purest form of entertainment.
We seek to bring the best of what man has written into the hands of those that desire to read it.
