How to identify a first printing
- Limitation/colophon page states the print run; many titles issued in signed limited and trade states — the limitation leaf and signature identify the limited first
- Trade firsts: confirm 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page where present, with no later-printing notice; verify the illustrator plates and binding/slipcase match the issued state
- Stephen King 'The Gunslinger' (1982) first Grant edition: 'First Edition' stated on copyright page, brown/maroon cloth boards gilt-lettered, Michael Whelan plates, unclipped jacket; no later-printing statement
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1964; specialist in lavishly illustrated SF/fantasy/Western, notably Robert E. Howard Conan volumes and Stephen King's 'The Dark Tower' originals
- 'The Gunslinger' (1982) and 'The Drawing of the Three' (1987) Grant editions are the true firsts long before the mass-market reprints — high-value points titles
- Grant did several co-imprint/limited runs; check the title page for a co-publisher (e.g. Underwood-Miller), which changes the issue state
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Grant/Hampton Falls, co-publications with Underwood-Miller. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Donald M. Grant, Publisher book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Limitation/colophon page states the print run; many titles issued in signed limited and trade states — the limitation leaf and signature identify the limited first Trade firsts: confirm 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page where present, with no later-printing notice; verify the illustrator plates and binding/slipcase match the issued state
Does Donald M. Grant, Publisher use a number line?
Trade firsts: confirm 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page where present, with no later-printing notice; verify the illustrator plates and binding/slipcase match the issued state
Is a book-club edition a Donald M. Grant, Publisher first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1964; specialist in lavishly illustrated SF/fantasy/Western, notably Robert E. Howard Conan volumes and Stephen King's 'The Dark Tower' originals
What era does this cover?
This covers Donald M. Grant, Publisher (1964-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.