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.