How to Determine Which Edition of a Book it Is?

What to Look For

• 1

  Find the copyright or dedication page in the first few pages of the book. It is often found on the back side of the title page.

• 2

  Look for the words "First Edition," "First Impression," or "NAP" which stands for "no additional printings" are included on the page. Occasionally there is an error in publication leaving these words on later editions, so continue with these steps to verify your finding.

• 3

  Check that the date on the title page matches the date on the copyright page. If they match it is most likely a first edition. Again, verify with another method if possible.

• 4

  Locate the number line on the copyright page. This is typically a series of eight to ten numbers in a random order. According to the Empty Mirror online arts magazine, the lowest number in the series indicates the edition. For example if you have a number line that reads "135796428", this would be a first edition because the "one" is the lowest number. Note that the number line may be substituted with an alphabetical line. Find the earliest letter within the alphabet, "A" being the first edition, "B" indicating the second edition and so forth.

• 5

  Verify your findings by checking an author's biography and the book's bibliography. Cross-check the publication date with the biography to establish through an independent source when the book was written. A reference librarian can help you locate a biography or materials within a bibliography.

• 6

  Consult a first edition book buying guide, such as "Antique Trader" Book Collector's Price Guide, if you have any doubts. (Resource 1)