How to identify a first printing
- 1980s-2000s (UK aviation specialist): the copyright page states 'First published [year] by Midland Publishing' with no reprint line on a first; reprints add a 'Reprinted [year]' line. A sole 'First published' statement indicates the first.
- Some titles carry a number line; where present, the lowest digit indicates the printing. The 'Aerofax' detailed-monograph series follows the same convention.
- Distribution passed through Midland Counties Publications and later Ian Allan and Crécy; distributor wording does not affect printing identification.
Notable points & cautions
- A major UK source for Soviet and Russian and Cold War aircraft monographs (the Gordon & Komissarov titles, the Aerofax series).
- Later absorbed into the Crécy Publishing group; the masthead changes but the convention persists.
- Specialist short runs; out-of-print Soviet-subject titles are sought after.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Midland Publishing, Aerofax (detailed-aircraft series), Crécy-distributed titles, Ian Allan-distributed. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Midland Publishing / Midland Counties Publications book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. 1980s-2000s (UK aviation specialist): the copyright page states 'First published [year] by Midland Publishing' with no reprint line on a first; reprints add a 'Reprinted [year]' line. A sole 'First published' statement indicates the first. Some titles carry a number line; where present, the lowest digit indicates the printing. The 'Aerofax' detailed-monograph series follows the same convention.
Does Midland Publishing / Midland Counties Publications use a number line?
Some titles carry a number line; where present, the lowest digit indicates the printing. The 'Aerofax' detailed-monograph series follows the same convention.
Is a book-club edition a Midland Publishing / Midland Counties Publications first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. A major UK source for Soviet and Russian and Cold War aircraft monographs (the Gordon & Komissarov titles, the Aerofax series).
What era does this cover?
This covers Midland Publishing / Midland Counties Publications (c.1985-present (within Crécy group)). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.