The fastest check: Stated "First Edition" plus a number line containing 1
How to identify a first printing
- Stated "First Edition" plus a number line containing 1
- Descending number line (10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1)
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
- Convention has been consistent since 1976, making Random House among the easiest American houses to authenticate.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Villard, Pantheon Books, Random House Trade. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Random House book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Stated "First Edition" plus a number line containing 1 Descending number line (10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1)
Does Random House use a number line?
Descending number line (10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1)
Is a book-club edition a Random House first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Convention has been consistent since 1976, making Random House among the easiest American houses to authenticate.
What era does this cover?
This covers Random House. Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.