How to identify a first printing
- Hardcovers are typically issued as a stated limited edition (commonly a few hundred copies) with a printed limitation statement in the colophon; the limitation number and the absence of any reprint notice identify the first
- Distinctive house style of cream cloth with a matching dust jacket; a first printing carries the stated limitation and year with no later-printing or reprint statement
- Several titles have been reprinted in matching format or later issued as paperback or ebook, so the earliest limited hardcover (lowest stated limitation and earliest year) is the true first
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1990 by R. B. (Raymond) Russell and Rosalie Parker; a leading press for supernatural and strange/weird fiction (Arthur Machen, Robert Aickman, Walter de la Mare, Oliver Onions) and a multiple World Fantasy Award winner
- Some titles have been reprinted several times in matching format, so collectors should confirm the earliest limited run rather than rely on the house style alone
- Began in 1990 with Russell publishing work by and about Arthur Machen
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Tartarus Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Hardcovers are typically issued as a stated limited edition (commonly a few hundred copies) with a printed limitation statement in the colophon; the limitation number and the absence of any reprint notice identify the first Distinctive house style of cream cloth with a matching dust jacket; a first printing carries the stated limitation and year with no later-printing or reprint statement
Does Tartarus Press use a number line?
Distinctive house style of cream cloth with a matching dust jacket; a first printing carries the stated limitation and year with no later-printing or reprint statement
Is a book-club edition a Tartarus Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1990 by R. B. (Raymond) Russell and Rosalie Parker; a leading press for supernatural and strange/weird fiction (Arthur Machen, Robert Aickman, Walter de la Mare, Oliver Onions) and a multiple World Fantasy Award winner
What era does this cover?
This covers Tartarus Press (1990–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.