How to Identify a Andersen Press First Edition

How to identify a first printing

• British convention: a first printing carries a complete number line ending in 1 on the copyright page (e.g. '1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2' or '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1'); lowest digit = printing
• Usually NO 'First edition' statement — identify via the full number line plus the 'First published in [year] by Andersen Press' line

Notable points & cautions

• UK independent founded in 1976 by Klaus Flugge; named for Hans Christian Andersen
• Elmer (David McKee) and the Little Princess / Preston Pig titles are flagship collectibles — UK Andersen firsts are identified by the complete number line
• US editions reach the market via Lerner (Andersen Press USA) and are later co-editions, not the true UK first

Imprints

First editions also appear under: Andersen Press, Andersen Press USA (US distribution via Lerner). Each generally follows the house convention above.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if my Andersen Press book is a first edition?

Check the copyright page. British convention: a first printing carries a complete number line ending in 1 on the copyright page (e.g. '1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2' or '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1'); lowest digit = printing Usually NO 'First edition' statement — identify via the full number line plus the 'First published in [year] by Andersen Press' line

Does Andersen Press use a number line?

Usually NO 'First edition' statement — identify via the full number line plus the 'First published in [year] by Andersen Press' line

Is a book-club edition a Andersen Press first edition?

No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. UK independent founded in 1976 by Klaus Flugge; named for Hans Christian Andersen

What era does this cover?

This covers Andersen Press (1976–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.