How to identify a first printing
- Society publishing, not trade firsts. Much of its historical output is the 'Proceedings of the American Antiquarian Society,' identified by volume and date of the serial (the new series ran from 1880; the Proceedings ceased with volume 118, part 2, in October 2008).
- Monographs and bibliographies (often co-published with or distributed by university presses): follow standard scholarly practice — a number line where present, otherwise dated single printings.
- Some titles were issued in stated limited editions (members' editions) — identify by the limitation statement.
- Historically associated with major American bibliographies: AAS published the final volumes (13-14) of Charles Evans's 'American Bibliography'; such reference works have distinct editions identified by edition statement and year.
Notable points & cautions
- Primary identifier for the journal is serial volume/date (Proceedings, new series from 1880, ceased 2008).
- Co-published monographs follow the partner press's conventions.
- Better known as a research library and learned society than as a trade publisher.
- Limited members' editions exist for some titles; AAS completed Charles Evans's 'American Bibliography' (vols. 13-14, 1955 and 1959).
Imprints
First editions also appear under: American Antiquarian Society, Proceedings of the American Antiquarian Society (serial), AAS scholarly monographs and bibliographies. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my American Antiquarian Society book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Society publishing, not trade firsts. Much of its historical output is the 'Proceedings of the American Antiquarian Society,' identified by volume and date of the serial (the new series ran from 1880; the Proceedings ceased with volume 118, part 2, in October 2008). Monographs and bibliographies (often co-published with or distributed by university presses): follow standard scholarly practice — a number line where present, otherwise dated single printings.
Does American Antiquarian Society use a number line?
Monographs and bibliographies (often co-published with or distributed by university presses): follow standard scholarly practice — a number line where present, otherwise dated single printings.
Is a book-club edition a American Antiquarian Society first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Primary identifier for the journal is serial volume/date (Proceedings, new series from 1880, ceased 2008).
What era does this cover?
This covers American Antiquarian Society (1812-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.