How to determine edition of a book

If a 1 is present - in any sequence - it's usually a sign that the book is a first edition. If a book reads something like 3 5 7 9 8 6 4 , then your book is not part of the first printing the example above indicates a third printing cycle. If the date on a copyright page matches the date on the title page, it's likely that your copy is a first edition. These dates can differ if the publication date is earlier than copyright is acquired, but if this is the indicator used you will want to ensure both dates match.

Some publishers will print the words 'First Edition', 'First Printing', 'First Impression' or similar on their copyright page to make it easier to identify which printing a book was part of.

It's always worth checking the number in this situation, as the words can sometimes be left on the copyright page either by mistake or intentionally, leading to some confusion. Watch our BookBreak video for some tips and tricks on second hand bookshopping below:.

Sign up here. Ready for your next read? Home Articles Fiction How do I tell if my book is a first edition? What is a first edition book? When searching on AbeBooks, it's important to find copies that match the book in your possession as accurately as possible. Search carefully and avoid spelling mistakes. Look inside the book and identify the book's publisher - complete the publisher field but leave out terms like limited, company or press.

If possible identify the book's date of publication. Complete the date fields - if you have identified the exact year of publication then put the same date into both fields. If you are unsure, you may to wish to search for books between two defined dates - eg and The keyword field is useful if you know the illustrator's name or some other defining aspect like the book's binding perhaps it's leather or cloth.

The search results will be presented by the lowest price first. Scroll through the listings and read how the booksellers have described the books. Look for a listing that is similar to your book. Please remember that an old or antique book is not necessary valuable just because it's old.

Common books like the works of William Shakespeare, prayer books, bibles and encyclopedias were printed in huge quantities during the Victorian era and usually have little value. AbeBooks is very useful for finding an approximate value of a book but don't use that value for insurance purposes.

If you really need a documented estimate of a book's value for probate or insurance purposes then visit your local rare bookshop and pay for a formal appraisal. Condition is very important and will greatly influence value. Search for the ISBN online or compare it to the one on the copyright page. Make extra cash without leaving your home - we'll collect your items from you! Start Selling Now. Nov 18, Register Your Account Today.

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