How to identify a first printing
- Modern convention: first printing typically stated as 'First Printing' or 'First Edition' on the copyright page, frequently accompanied by a descending number line (10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1) — lowest digit 1 present indicates the first printing.
- Absence of any later-printing line on the copyright page, combined with the stated first/number line, confirms a first.
- Letterpress / fine-press limited editions exist for some titles with a rear colophon stating the limitation and any signing — these are a separate, more valuable issue identified by the colophon.
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1972 (Denver) by Sam Hamill, Tree Swenson, Bill O'Daly, Jim Gautney; since 1974 in Port Townsend, Washington. Nonprofit, poetry-only.
- Publishes W.S. Merwin, Pablo Neruda (translations), Ted Kooser, Jim Harrison, Ocean Vuong; strong design/letterpress heritage (Hamill/Swenson were printers).
- Because it is a small nonprofit press, number-line/stated-first practice has been fairly consistent in the modern era but verify per title — some early-1970s titles predate uniform copyright-page conventions.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Copper Canyon Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Modern convention: first printing typically stated as 'First Printing' or 'First Edition' on the copyright page, frequently accompanied by a descending number line (10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1) — lowest digit 1 present indicates the first printing. Absence of any later-printing line on the copyright page, combined with the stated first/number line, confirms a first.
Does Copper Canyon Press use a number line?
Absence of any later-printing line on the copyright page, combined with the stated first/number line, confirms a first.
Is a book-club edition a Copper Canyon Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1972 (Denver) by Sam Hamill, Tree Swenson, Bill O'Daly, Jim Gautney; since 1974 in Port Townsend, Washington. Nonprofit, poetry-only.
What era does this cover?
This covers Copper Canyon Press (1972–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.