How to identify a first printing
- Pre-1945: identified by the LACK of a later-printing statement on the copyright page.
- 1945 onward: usually placed a first-edition statement on the copyright page of US-produced books (no statement on books produced outside the US).
- After 1985: first-edition statement PLUS a number row (presence of '1' = first).
Notable points & cautions
- The 'no statement on non-US-produced books' caveat means an imported/co-produced title may be a first despite lacking the statement.
- Merged into Holt, Rinehart & Winston in 1960; reverted to Henry Holt branding after 1985 — convention shifts at those boundaries.
- Robert Frost's longtime US publisher; individual Frost titles have their own points.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Henry Holt, Holt, Rinehart & Winston (1960-1985), Owl Books. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Henry Holt & Company book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Pre-1945: identified by the LACK of a later-printing statement on the copyright page. 1945 onward: usually placed a first-edition statement on the copyright page of US-produced books (no statement on books produced outside the US).
Does Henry Holt & Company use a number line?
1945 onward: usually placed a first-edition statement on the copyright page of US-produced books (no statement on books produced outside the US).
Is a book-club edition a Henry Holt & Company first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. The 'no statement on non-US-produced books' caveat means an imported/co-produced title may be a first despite lacking the statement.
What era does this cover?
This covers Henry Holt & Company (1866-1990s). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.