The fastest check: Stated "First Edition" (1947–present)
How to identify a first printing
- Stated "First Edition" (1947–present)
- Borzoi running-wolfhound device
- “A Note on the Type” colophon at the rear
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
- Borzoi colophon and “A Note on the Type” page authenticate genuine Knopf production rather than a book club reprint.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Borzoi Books. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Alfred A. Knopf book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Stated "First Edition" (1947–present) Borzoi running-wolfhound device
Does Alfred A. Knopf use a number line?
Borzoi running-wolfhound device
Is a book-club edition a Alfred A. Knopf first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Borzoi colophon and “A Note on the Type” page authenticate genuine Knopf production rather than a book club reprint.
What era does this cover?
This covers Alfred A. Knopf. Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.