How to identify a first printing
- Ultra-limited fine press: a printed limitation page (often at the rear) states a small numbered run, with the copy number and signatures identifying the issue; runs are usually in the low hundreds
- States are distinguished by binding and enclosure — cloth-bound copies in a slipcase are numbered in Arabic numerals, while full-leather deluxe copies in a traycase are designated with Roman numerals or letters and carry additional signed material
- Most titles appear in a single deluxe edition, so the presence of the limitation leaf and completeness of signed plates and enclosure are the identifiers; note that limitation pages occasionally contain errors
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 2001 by Jerad Walters; renowned for oversized, heavily illustrated fine-press horror and weird/SF books (Masters of the Weird Tale series, Thomas Ligotti) and winner of the HWA Specialty Press Award in 2013
- Print runs are tiny and most titles exist in a single state, so the first is effectively the only edition; completeness (slipcase or traycase, signed plates) and condition drive collectibility
- Millipede Press was the press's trade-paperback arm rather than an old name that was simply rebranded; Cocytus Press was another early imprint
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Millipede Press (trade-paperback sister imprint), Cocytus Press (early imprint). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Centipede Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Ultra-limited fine press: a printed limitation page (often at the rear) states a small numbered run, with the copy number and signatures identifying the issue; runs are usually in the low hundreds States are distinguished by binding and enclosure — cloth-bound copies in a slipcase are numbered in Arabic numerals, while full-leather deluxe copies in a traycase are designated with Roman numerals or letters and carry additional signed material
Does Centipede Press use a number line?
States are distinguished by binding and enclosure — cloth-bound copies in a slipcase are numbered in Arabic numerals, while full-leather deluxe copies in a traycase are designated with Roman numerals or letters and carry additional signed material
Is a book-club edition a Centipede Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 2001 by Jerad Walters; renowned for oversized, heavily illustrated fine-press horror and weird/SF books (Masters of the Weird Tale series, Thomas Ligotti) and winner of the HWA Specialty Press Award in 2013
What era does this cover?
This covers Centipede Press (2001–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.