How to identify a first printing
- On a first printing the copyright page reads 'First published by Scribe [year]' (or 'Published by Scribe Publications [year]'), carries no later-printing notice, and the stated year matches the copyright year. This statement is the primary and most reliable first-printing signal.
- Many modern Scribe titles also carry a descending number line '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1', where the lowest digit present ('1') indicates a first printing; treat this as supporting evidence only, since the line is not used on every title.
- Scribe UK editions (from May 2013) carry a London Scribe address and often a separate 'First published in the UK by Scribe [year]' statement, distinct from the Australian first appearance; compare the two to establish which territory is the true first.
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1976 in Melbourne by Henry Rosenbloom; began as a serious-nonfiction one-man house and remains independent.
- Scribe UK sister company established May 2013 (London). For a title issued in both territories, the Australian edition is usually the true first; verify by comparing the 'first published' statements and addresses.
- Continuous independent ownership means the statement-plus-number-line combination is reliable for recent titles, with the printed statement carrying the weight when no number line is present.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Scribe, Scribe UK, Scribe US (distribution arm). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Scribe Publications book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. On a first printing the copyright page reads 'First published by Scribe [year]' (or 'Published by Scribe Publications [year]'), carries no later-printing notice, and the stated year matches the copyright year. This statement is the primary and most reliable first-printing signal. Many modern Scribe titles also carry a descending number line '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1', where the lowest digit present ('1') indicates a first printing; treat this as supporting evidence only, since the line is not used on every title.
Does Scribe Publications use a number line?
Many modern Scribe titles also carry a descending number line '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1', where the lowest digit present ('1') indicates a first printing; treat this as supporting evidence only, since the line is not used on every title.
Is a book-club edition a Scribe Publications first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1976 in Melbourne by Henry Rosenbloom; began as a serious-nonfiction one-man house and remains independent.
What era does this cover?
This covers Scribe Publications (1976–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.