How to identify a first printing
- First printings carry a number line, typically descending ending in 1 (1 present = first); lowest digit indicates printing
- Copyright page shows the original year with no later-edition or reprint statement
- Picador originated as a quality paperback imprint (1972) and later issued hardcover firsts — distinguish a Picador first paperback edition from an earlier hardcover true first elsewhere
- First printing = number line ending in 1 + no reprint notation
Notable points & cautions
- Picador's literary list: Cormac McCarthy (UK), Bret Easton Ellis (UK), Graham Swift, many Booker authors
- Because Picador often issued UK paperback editions of books first published elsewhere, 'first Picador edition' is frequently NOT the true first edition of the work
- Pan was the mass-market paperback arm; Pan firsts are paperback-original firsts in some cases
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Picador, Pan Books, Mantle, Tor UK, Bluebird. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Pan Macmillan / Picador (UK) book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. First printings carry a number line, typically descending ending in 1 (1 present = first); lowest digit indicates printing Copyright page shows the original year with no later-edition or reprint statement
Does Pan Macmillan / Picador (UK) use a number line?
Copyright page shows the original year with no later-edition or reprint statement
Is a book-club edition a Pan Macmillan / Picador (UK) first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Picador's literary list: Cormac McCarthy (UK), Bret Easton Ellis (UK), Graham Swift, many Booker authors
What era does this cover?
This covers Pan Macmillan / Picador (UK) (1947 (Pan) / 1972 (Picador)-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.