How to identify a first printing
- Editions identified by the limitation/colophon statement: many titles issued in trade plus signed/numbered and sometimes lettered states — the limitation leaf gives the run
- First printings indicated by absence of later-printing notation; the publisher's name 'Underwood-Miller' (joint era) vs. later solo imprints helps date the state
- Match correct binding/slipcase as specified for the limited issue
Notable points & cautions
- Tim Underwood and Chuck Miller partnership (c.1976–early 1990s); definitive collectible hardcovers of Jack Vance, Philip K. Dick, Roger Zelazny, Stephen King nonfiction
- After the partnership dissolved, Underwood and Miller continued separately (Underwood Books; Miller's later imprints) — joint 'Underwood-Miller' imprint marks the classic era
- The Jack Vance hardcovers are especially sought; verify signed/numbered limitation state via the colophon
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Underwood-Miller, Underwood Books (later, Tim Underwood), Chuck Miller (later separate ventures). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Underwood-Miller book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Editions identified by the limitation/colophon statement: many titles issued in trade plus signed/numbered and sometimes lettered states — the limitation leaf gives the run First printings indicated by absence of later-printing notation; the publisher's name 'Underwood-Miller' (joint era) vs. later solo imprints helps date the state
Does Underwood-Miller use a number line?
First printings indicated by absence of later-printing notation; the publisher's name 'Underwood-Miller' (joint era) vs. later solo imprints helps date the state
Is a book-club edition a Underwood-Miller first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Tim Underwood and Chuck Miller partnership (c.1976–early 1990s); definitive collectible hardcovers of Jack Vance, Philip K. Dick, Roger Zelazny, Stephen King nonfiction
What era does this cover?
This covers Underwood-Miller (c.1976–1994 (joint imprint)). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.