How to identify a first printing
- Squadron/Signal published saddle-stitched and softcover military aircraft, armor, and ship monographs; the first 'In Action' title appeared in 1971. A first printing carries a single original copyright year and no reprint notation; later printings typically add a revised printing date or a 'Second printing' line.
- Many numbers were reprinted over the years, sometimes with updated cover art but the same series catalog number. The series number (e.g. 'Aircraft No. 1 in Action') is a catalog designation, not an edition state; identify a true first by the original copyright/printing date rather than the series number.
- The line was relaunched in 2022 under new ownership. A relaunched edition is not the original first printing even when it bears the same series number, so verify the original 1970s-1980s copyright date for an early first.
Notable points & cautions
- Series numbers are catalog numbers, not edition states.
- The company suspended publishing in January 2021 and the line was relaunched in May 2022; the original-vs-relaunch ownership split is the key collectibility divider.
- Detail & Scale was a closely associated line with its own numbering.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: In Action series, Walk Around series, On Deck (ships), Detail & Scale (closely associated/distributed). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Squadron/Signal Publications book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Squadron/Signal published saddle-stitched and softcover military aircraft, armor, and ship monographs; the first 'In Action' title appeared in 1971. A first printing carries a single original copyright year and no reprint notation; later printings typically add a revised printing date or a 'Second printing' line. Many numbers were reprinted over the years, sometimes with updated cover art but the same series catalog number. The series number (e.g. 'Aircraft No. 1 in Action') is a catalog designation, not an edition state; identify a true first by the original copyright/printing date rather than the series number.
Does Squadron/Signal Publications use a number line?
Many numbers were reprinted over the years, sometimes with updated cover art but the same series catalog number. The series number (e.g. 'Aircraft No. 1 in Action') is a catalog designation, not an edition state; identify a true first by the original copyright/printing date rather than the series number.
Is a book-club edition a Squadron/Signal Publications first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Series numbers are catalog numbers, not edition states.
What era does this cover?
This covers Squadron/Signal Publications (1968-2021 (original run); relaunched 2022-present under new ownership). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.