How to identify a first printing
- 1902–c.1930s: publisher of inexpensive children's series books and early comic-strip reprint volumes. First printings carry no edition statement; the earliest printing is identified by the rear advertised-title list (a list ending with the latest series title dates the printing), the copyright-page state, and binding/jacket art. As with Grosset & Dunlap series books, the advertised-title-list method is the core dating tool.
- c.1930s–1956: continued series books and comic-strip reprint volumes (Bringing Up Father, Mutt and Jeff, Little Orphan Annie, and others). Later printings are distinguished by expanded ad lists and altered cover art; there is no number line or first-edition statement.
Notable points & cautions
- Major early-20th-century series-book and comic-strip-reprint publisher, founded 1902 by Victor I. Cupples and Arthur T. Leon.
- First-printing identification relies on the rear advertised-title list and the format/binding state; there are no edition statements.
- Left the comic-strip reprint field in 1934 to concentrate on juvenile fiction; the firm was acquired by Platt & Munk in 1956.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Cupples & Leon, Cupples & Leon series books. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Cupples & Leon Company book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. 1902–c.1930s: publisher of inexpensive children's series books and early comic-strip reprint volumes. First printings carry no edition statement; the earliest printing is identified by the rear advertised-title list (a list ending with the latest series title dates the printing), the copyright-page state, and binding/jacket art. As with Grosset & Dunlap series books, the advertised-title-list method is the core dating tool. c.1930s–1956: continued series books and comic-strip reprint volumes (Bringing Up Father, Mutt and Jeff, Little Orphan Annie, and others). Later printings are distinguished by expanded ad lists and altered cover art; there is no number line or first-edition statement.
Does Cupples & Leon Company use a number line?
c.1930s–1956: continued series books and comic-strip reprint volumes (Bringing Up Father, Mutt and Jeff, Little Orphan Annie, and others). Later printings are distinguished by expanded ad lists and altered cover art; there is no number line or first-edition statement.
Is a book-club edition a Cupples & Leon Company first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Major early-20th-century series-book and comic-strip-reprint publisher, founded 1902 by Victor I. Cupples and Arthur T. Leon.
What era does this cover?
This covers Cupples & Leon Company (1902–1956). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.