The fastest check: “First Published by Viking in [Year]” statement (1937–present)
How to identify a first printing
- “First Published by Viking in [Year]” statement (1937–present)
- On 1980s titles, a number line appears on later printings only
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
- Counter-intuitive: a number line on a 1980s Viking usually signals a later printing, not a first.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Viking Press / Penguin book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. “First Published by Viking in [Year]” statement (1937–present) On 1980s titles, a number line appears on later printings only
Does Viking Press / Penguin use a number line?
On 1980s titles, a number line appears on later printings only
Is a book-club edition a Viking Press / Penguin first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Counter-intuitive: a number line on a 1980s Viking usually signals a later printing, not a first.
What era does this cover?
This covers Viking Press / Penguin. Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.