The fastest check: “First Printing” statement (pre-1970s)
How to identify a first printing
- “First Printing” statement (pre-1970s)
- Number line (1970s–present)
Decode the printer's key: paste the number line into the number-line decoder, or run any book through the first-edition identifier.
Notable points & cautions
- One of the more straightforward American houses to authenticate.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Houghton Mifflin book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. “First Printing” statement (pre-1970s) Number line (1970s–present)
Does Houghton Mifflin use a number line?
Number line (1970s–present)
Is a book-club edition a Houghton Mifflin first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. One of the more straightforward American houses to authenticate.
What era does this cover?
This covers Houghton Mifflin. Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.