How to identify a first printing
- Letterpress limited editions with a printed colophon stating the limitation; many titles in tiered states — e.g., a numbered standard edition plus a smaller SPECIAL/deluxe edition (extra plates, full-morocco binding, sometimes signed)
- Original wood engravings by major artists (Eric Gill, Robert Gibbings, John Buckland Wright, Eric Ravilious, etc.) integral to the book; the cockerel device authenticates
- Deluxe/special copies are at a lower number range and stated separately in the colophon
- No number line — colophon limitation and engraver/device identify
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1920 by Harold Taylor; revived under Robert Gibbings (1924–33), then Christopher Sandford — its golden age for wood-engraved illustration
- Landmark: 'The Four Gospels' (1931) designed and engraved by ERIC GILL — one of the great illustrated press books; Gill also engraved 'The Canterbury Tales'
- Tiered states (ordinary numbered vs. deluxe full-morocco special) are the key collation point
- Standard reference: 'The Golden Cockerel Press: A Bibliography' (Cockerel checklists); beware that the press changed hands several times
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Harold Taylor (founder), Robert Gibbings era (1924–1933), Christopher Sandford / Owen Rutter / Francis Newbery era (from 1933). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Golden Cockerel Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Letterpress limited editions with a printed colophon stating the limitation; many titles in tiered states — e.g., a numbered standard edition plus a smaller SPECIAL/deluxe edition (extra plates, full-morocco binding, sometimes signed) Original wood engravings by major artists (Eric Gill, Robert Gibbings, John Buckland Wright, Eric Ravilious, etc.) integral to the book; the cockerel device authenticates
Does Golden Cockerel Press use a number line?
Original wood engravings by major artists (Eric Gill, Robert Gibbings, John Buckland Wright, Eric Ravilious, etc.) integral to the book; the cockerel device authenticates
Is a book-club edition a Golden Cockerel Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1920 by Harold Taylor; revived under Robert Gibbings (1924–33), then Christopher Sandford — its golden age for wood-engraved illustration
What era does this cover?
This covers Golden Cockerel Press (1920–1961). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.