How to identify a Random House first edition
Random House is the classic exception to the number-line rule: for decades its first printings said “First Edition” and had a number line that started at 2, not 1.
What to look for, by period
1927 – 1970s
First printings state “First Edition” on the copyright page. Later printings drop the statement, usually without saying which printing they are.
1970s – early 2000s
A number line is added. On the first printing it starts (or ends) at 2 and sits under the words “First Edition”. The second printing removes “First Edition” but still has a 2; from the third printing on, the lowest number is the printing.
early 2000s – today
Number lines generally include a 1, together with a “First Edition” statement on the first printing.
- Tip: A line that starts at 2 with no “First Edition” statement is a second printing, not a first.
Dates are approximate. Imprints and individual titles sometimes differ; for valuable books, check a bibliography of the author.
Check your Random House book
New to number lines? Read how to read a number line, and how to spot a book club edition.