How to identify a first printing
- True first printings follow the standard HarperCollins convention: the words "First Edition" stated on the copyright page together with a complete descending number line ending in 1 (e.g., 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1).
- If "First Edition" is stated but the lowest digit in the number line is higher than 1, it is a later printing of the first edition, not a first printing; on many later printings the "First Edition" statement is removed entirely.
Notable points & cautions
- African-American interest imprint; founded as the independent Amistad Press in 1986 and acquired by HarperCollins in 1999.
- Now part of HarperCollins's Mariner Books Group following the 2024 U.S. trade reorganization.
- Oldest imprint devoted to the African-American market; leans toward literary fiction and narrative nonfiction.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Amistad. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Amistad book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. True first printings follow the standard HarperCollins convention: the words "First Edition" stated on the copyright page together with a complete descending number line ending in 1 (e.g., 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1). If "First Edition" is stated but the lowest digit in the number line is higher than 1, it is a later printing of the first edition, not a first printing; on many later printings the "First Edition" statement is removed entirely.
Does Amistad use a number line?
If "First Edition" is stated but the lowest digit in the number line is higher than 1, it is a later printing of the first edition, not a first printing; on many later printings the "First Edition" statement is removed entirely.
Is a book-club edition a Amistad first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. African-American interest imprint; founded as the independent Amistad Press in 1986 and acquired by HarperCollins in 1999.
What era does this cover?
This covers Amistad (1986–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.