How to identify a first printing
- Trade first edition: copyright page typically without later-printing notation; check against the known single print run (~3,000 copies)
- Signed/limited state is identified by a tipped-in or bound-in 'limitation leaf' after the title page, stating the limitation number and signed by the author (anywhere from ~250 to 500 numbered/signed copies per title)
- Trade copies lack the limitation leaf; presence of the numbered, author-signed leaf marks the limited issue
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1946 by Lloyd Arthur Eshbach in Reading, PA; published E. E. 'Doc' Smith's Lensman/Skylark, Heinlein, Williamson, van Vogt in hardcover
- Quality bindings, good paper, and interior illustrations are house hallmarks
- Signed limited issues (esp. Heinlein) command multiples of the trade price
- Polaris Press was a short-lived associated imprint
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Fantasy Press, Polaris Press (sister imprint). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Fantasy Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Trade first edition: copyright page typically without later-printing notation; check against the known single print run (~3,000 copies) Signed/limited state is identified by a tipped-in or bound-in 'limitation leaf' after the title page, stating the limitation number and signed by the author (anywhere from ~250 to 500 numbered/signed copies per title)
Does Fantasy Press use a number line?
Signed/limited state is identified by a tipped-in or bound-in 'limitation leaf' after the title page, stating the limitation number and signed by the author (anywhere from ~250 to 500 numbered/signed copies per title)
Is a book-club edition a Fantasy Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1946 by Lloyd Arthur Eshbach in Reading, PA; published E. E. 'Doc' Smith's Lensman/Skylark, Heinlein, Williamson, van Vogt in hardcover
What era does this cover?
This covers Fantasy Press (1946–1961). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.