How to identify a Houghton Mifflin first edition
Houghton Mifflin first printings traditionally carry the year on the title page, which was removed on later printings. From the 1970s it uses a number line preceded by a printer code.
What to look for, by period
to the 1950s
The year of publication on the title page (in Arabic numerals) on first printings; it was removed from later printings.
late 1950s – early 1970s
“First Printing” on the copyright page.
1970s – today
A number line preceded by a few letters, a manufacturer code. The letters identify the printer; the lowest number is the printing.
Dates are approximate. Imprints and individual titles sometimes differ; for valuable books, check a bibliography of the author.
Check your Houghton Mifflin book
New to number lines? Read how to read a number line, and how to spot a book club edition.